Man who sparked Epping migrant hotel protests found guilty of sexual assault

©Tom Blewitt – Predator Awareness

A man whose arrest triggered a wave of protests outside an Essex hotel housing asylum seekers has been found guilty of multiple sexual offences, reigniting fierce debate over immigration policy and public safety.

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 41-year-old Ethiopian national, was convicted today at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and harassing another woman shortly after arriving in the UK via a small boat. The Bell Hotel in Epping, where Kebatu was housed, became the epicentre of public demonstrations following his arrest on 13 July.

Disturbing Allegations and Swift Verdict

The court heard that Kebatu attempted to kiss the teenage girl, placed his hand on her thigh, and brushed her hair after she offered him pizza. Days earlier, he allegedly tried to kiss an adult woman, touched her leg, and commented on her appearance. During the trial, it was revealed that Kebatu had also told two teenagers he wanted “to have a baby with each of them.”

Despite denying all charges—including two counts of sexual assault, one of attempted sexual assault, one of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one of harassment without violence—Kebatu was found guilty on all counts. District Judge Christopher Williams delivered his verdict in just 30 minutes, stating there was no evidence to suggest the victims had fabricated their accounts.

Kebatu, described as a “teacher of sports” in his home country, showed no visible reaction as the verdict was read. He is scheduled to be sentenced on 23 September, with the judge warning that an immediate custodial sentence is likely.

Police Praise Victims’ Courage

Essex Police Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper commended the victims for their bravery and the strength of their testimonies. “It is because of their accounts of what happened, and the close co-operation with our Crown Prosecution Service colleagues, that we have been able to secure this conviction,” he said. “We treat and investigate every report made to us without fear or favour.”

Political Fallout and Public Outcry

The case has drawn sharp political responses, particularly from Conservative shadow Home Office minister Katie Lam, who called the crimes “shocking and heart-breaking.” She argued that the incident underscores the dangers of allowing asylum seekers to “roam around communities freely,” and called for immediate detention and deportation of all illegal migrants.

“This must never be allowed to happen again,” Lam stated. “The victims have shown incredible bravery.”

The verdict has intensified tensions nationwide, with protests and counter-protests erupting not only in Epping but at other hotels housing asylum seekers across the UK. The Bell Hotel, once a quiet local establishment, has become a flashpoint in the broader debate over immigration, safeguarding, and community trust.

CPS Reaffirms Commitment to Justice

Rebecca Mundy, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East of England, acknowledged the community’s concern and emphasized the impartiality of the legal process. “Our prosecutors worked carefully and impartially to bring this case to justice according to the law,” she said.

A Community Demands Accountability

As sentencing approaches, the case continues to stir deep emotions and urgent questions. For many, it’s a call to re-examine how vulnerable individuals—and local residents—are protected. For others, it’s a rallying cry for reform in immigration enforcement and safeguarding protocols.

The Bell Hotel may or may not house asylum seekers going forward, after the council decided to close the Bell Hotel to asylum seekers, but this is currently being appealed by the Labour government who want to keep it open. But the echoes of this case will reverberate far beyond its walls.

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu will be sentenced at the same court on September 23rd.

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