An asylum seeker billeted in an Epping hotel has been jailed for a year after sexually assaulting a woman and a teenage girl. The shocking attacks have sparked outrage and protests across Essex and beyond.
Asylum Seeker’s Shocking Sex Attacks
Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, an Ethiopian who crossed the Channel by small boat just days before the crimes, targeted two teenage girls. He told them he wanted to “have a baby with each” before groping, attempting to kiss them, and stroking their hair. Kebatu also assaulted a woman, calling her “pretty” while touching her leg and trying to force a kiss.
Protests Erupt Outside Asylum Hotel
The vile attacks have ignited fierce demonstrations outside the Bell Inn hotel in Epping, Essex — where Kebatu was housed. Protests and counterprotests quickly spread nationwide at asylum hotels. The local council tried to ban the Bell Inn from housing asylum seekers, but the government successfully fought back.
Swift Conviction and Harsh Penalty
Kebatu denied all charges but was found guilty after just 30 minutes of deliberation at chelmsford/" title="Chelmsford" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court. He was convicted of two counts of sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, inciting a girl to sexual activity, and harassment without violence. District Judge Christopher Williams sentenced him to 12 months in jail, a 10-year stint on the Sex Offenders’ Register, and a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Kebatu must also pay £650 prosecution costs and a £187 victim surcharge.
Victims Share Their Trauma
The woman said she felt “angered and frustrated,” adding, “He did not even appear to know that what he’s done was wrong.” She now fears leaving her house and struggles with nightmares. The 14-year-old girl revealed she “checks over her shoulder” when out and that “wearing a skirt now makes me feel vulnerable and exposed.” She added, “Seeing the bench where it happened reminds me of everything.”
Calls Mount to Deport Kebatu
Despite claims of remorse, a pre-sentencing report labelled Kebatu’s attitude “manipulative.” Prosecutor Stuart Cowen said Kebatu admitted UK laws were strict but claimed, “Epping is chaos and I got a lot of migrants in trouble.” His lawyer revealed Kebatu wishes to be deported and suffers mental health issues. Kebatu has no previous convictions in the UK or abroad. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp blasted the case handling: “Justice has been served and the government must deport this criminal immediately. Illegal immigrants should not be housed in hotels — they should be booted out.”
Legal Fallout: Deportation Looms
Under the UK Borders Act 2007, Kebatu must be issued a deportation order following his 12-month custodial sentence.
