Moshe Katsav
Moshe KatsavFlash 90

Former President Moshe Katsav is asking for early release from prison after finishing two-thirds of his sentence. Israel Prison Service says that it will discuss the issue in the next few days.

The parole board must weight the danger Katsav presents to the public alongside the question of whether he is worthy of early release, although these are not the only considerations.

The board is expected to acknowledge that he has been let out on regular furloughs for the past two years, which suggest that he is not a significant danger. According to various reports, Katsav is also not considered a problematic prisoner.

However, the fact that, until now, he has refused to admit his guilt and express remorse could be enough of an issue to prevent his release. The parole board generally prefers releasing prisoners only after the confess and repent.

Katsav has so far served more than four years of his seven-year sentence, handed to him in December 2010 for two counts of rape and obstruction of justice, among other charges.

Should he receive an early release, it would likely come very soon after the board's decision.