Chelmsford, Sept 24(HS): An Ethiopian asylum seeker whose crimes triggered protests outside an Essex hotel has been jailed for one year after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Epping.Hadush Kebatu, 41, was staying at The Bell Hotel after arriving in the UK by small boat in early July when he committed the offences just eight days later.
During his trial at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court, he was found guilty of two sexual assaults, harassment, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and an attempted sexual assault.District Judge Christopher Williams described the schoolgirl’s ordeal as disgusting and sickening, adding that Kebatu posed a significant risk of reoffending.
The girl told police she felt compelled to look over her shoulder whenever out with friends, saying she had been left deeply shaken.Pattern of OffendingThe offences unfolded over July 7–8, when Kebatu harassed two girls in the town centre, telling them they would make good wives in Africa. He allegedly offered to have children with them before attempting to kiss one of the girls and placing his hand on her thigh.
On a separate occasion, he assaulted a woman who had been helping him with a CV, placing his hand on her leg. She later alerted police after spotting him approach the girl again.Despite his denials—telling the court he was not a wild animal and describing his actions as anti-Christian—the judge said Kebatu had attempted to portray himself as a scapegoat while ignoring the clear impact of his behaviour.
Under the UK Borders Act 2007, foreign nationals sentenced to at least 12 months in prison face automatic deportation. The Home Office confirmed it will seek to remove Kebatu after his custodial term. His barrister stated Kebatu was firm in his wish to be deported as soon as possible.
The case sparked widespread demonstrations outside The Bell Hotel over the summer, fuelling tensions about the government’s policy of housing asylum seekers in local communities. Prosecutors said Kebatu himself admitted the uproar had left him suicidal in custody and worried he had got a lot of other migrants in trouble.
Essex Police hailed the victims’ bravery in securing the conviction. Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: They came forward and trusted us with their experiences. Today I want to say a personal thank you to them for their courage.Kebatu will serve his 12-month sentence before the deportation process begins.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
