flew a second time to visit Berland, and apparently succeeded in making some kind of deal between Berland and the Israeli authorities in which Berland would turn himself in voluntarily. On May 27, 2016, Berland released a letter and audio recording to his followers saying, "I decided to return to Israel". Conviction and sentencing On November 18, 2016, Berland was convicted by the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court after admitting to two counts of indecent acts and one assault. He was sentenced on November 22 to 18 months imprisonment. Berland has expressed remorse over his acts and said that he takes responsibility for what happened: "I am willing to accept any punishment in the world, including burning me and stoning me because that is Torah law. The punishment that was meted to me was perhaps too light, and I am willing to accept a greater punishment". On February 12, 2017, Berland was taken to the hospital for an urgent operation. He was later released to house arrest because of his health. Formation of special Beth Din At the request of many, a special Beth din (religious court) was convened to investigate the rumors that have come out against Berland, the leader of the Shuvu Bonim community. The beth din comprised three dayanim, and its goal was to adjudicate the manner in which everyone should conduct themselves. On June 24, 2019, this special court issued the following order regarding Berland: "To stop immediately all hatred, persecution, arguments and slander, in writing and in speech, and in all form of media and publication." The statement was signed by Moishe Sternbuch, Yitzchok Tuvia Weiss, and others. On May 20, after months of collecting evidence and testimony, the beth din issued their final conclusive ruling. It described the content of the testimonies that they had heard as “untoward acts” and “very serious behaviors,” and they concluded that, “It is clear that according to the opinion of our holy teachings, anyone who violates the three cardinal sins and their derivatives, someone who values his soul must stay away from him [the violator] and one is obligated to act in this way.” The ruling also contained a paragraph warning that this is a serious issue since defenders of Berland have excused his behavior, even publishing books, claiming it is permitted for a Tzaddik to perform sins. The ruling continued, "These matters are to considered complete heresy in the