An Israeli executive caused over £100,000 worth of damage to the Four Seasons hotel in Park Lane, Southwark Crown Court has heard.

Ofer Tsofan, who has claimed he was suffering from an ‘acute manic episode’, torched furnishings, barricaded himself in his room and threw various objects at police officers who attended the scene. 

OFer tsoman

Ofer Tsoman, who appeared at Southwark crown court this week

On the day of the incident, Mr Tsofan was seen by hotel staff demanding to speak to Bill Gates as well and shouting abuse at a friend whom the hotel had called to do a welfare check. 

In the course of his 100 minute rampage, Mr. Tsofan destroyed antique chests, two televisions, speakers, wooden furniture and multiple tabletops as well as causing damage to artwork and wallpaper.

Mr. Tsofan, of no fixed address, is denying arson, criminal damage to property and two assaults of emergency workers, namely police officers, due to reason of insanity.

Prosecutor Christopher Jenkins said: ‘It is not disputed that Mr Tsofan committed the acts that he is accused of.

‘Mr Tsofan was assisted after these incidents by three expert psychiatrists, in essence all three or less agreed Mr Tsofan could avail himself of the defence of insanity.

‘Mr Tsofan was in the middle of an acute manic episode.”