Ethiopian Migrant Arrested for Sexual Assault of 14-Year-Old in Epping

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker staying at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, is on trial for multiple sexual assault charges involving a 14-year-old schoolgirl. He is accused of making inappropriate advances, including attempting to kiss the girl, complimenting her appearance, expressing a desire to have children with her, and physically grabbing her thigh on separate occasions. Police body-worn camera footage showed Kebatu breaking down in tears as he was arrested, with officers attempting to reassure him at the scene. Kebatu denies all allegations, claiming he is a Christian and would never harm children, asserting he was worried about his asylum case at the time. The case has sparked protests outside the Bell Hotel and similar facilities housing asylum seekers across the UK. The trial continues as Kebatu faces charges including sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, harassment, and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.