Golders Green Rabbi Aaron Halpern Convicted of Sexually Assaulting Woman He Counselled

A rabbi from Golders Green has been convicted of sexually assaulting a woman he met through his role as a religious counsellor. Aaron “Chaim” Halpern, 68, was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault at Harrow Crown Court on Thursday and will be sentenced in January.

What happened?

The Metropolitan Police said Halpern used his religious standing to abuse a woman, who was in her 20s at the time, while she was seeking his guidance as a counsellor. The offences took place between June and July 2022 at a synagogue and at a residential address in Golders Green, north London.

Allegations about Halpern were broadcast on Israeli television in November 2022. The woman came forward to Met officers in February 2023, and Halpern was arrested in March 2023 and again in March 2024 before being charged. As a victim of a sexual offence, she has lifelong anonymity.

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What police said

Detective Constable Joshua Dwyer, who led the investigation, said: “This was a profound abuse of trust.” He added: “No one should feel that a person’s status, influence or standing places them beyond the reach of the law.”

Where to get support

If you have been affected by sexual violence, you can contact the police on 101 (or 999 in an emergency), or get free, confidential support from Rape Crisis England & Wales on 0808 500 2222. Jewish Women’s Aid also offers specialist support.

Source: Metropolitan Police.