Jun.17, 2010

A Deal rabbi who was caught on tape in 2006 saying "I'm a money-launderer. . . . I'm going to be arrested," during an FBI undercover sting pleaded guilty today to laundering about $1.5 million that he believed came from the proceeds of criminal activities.

Long Branch resident Eliahu Ben Haim, 59, who formerly served as principal rabbi of Congregation Ohel Yaacob in Deal, pleaded guilty to a money laundering conspiracy charge in an appearance before U.S. District Court Judge Joel A. Pisano.

Ben Haim, who is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 30, was allowed to remain free on $1.5 million bail, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman said. Confined to his home, Ben Haim must wear a GPS tracking device, and he has surrendered his passport.