Two Charged After Violent Protests at Epping Asylum Hotel

Protests have erupted in Epping over the government's decision to block the closure of the Bell Hotel, which houses asylum seekers, following a Court of Appeal ruling lifting a temporary injunction against the hotel’s use. During a recent demonstration, three men were arrested, with two charged: Ross Ellis for failing to provide a specimen after a drink-driving suspicion, and Jimmy Hillard for assaulting an emergency worker after police officers sustained injuries. Police enforced Section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986 to disperse protesters by 9:30 p.m., alongside a Section 60AA order allowing face covering removal, aiming to prevent disorder. Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin emphasized the right to protest but condemned criminal acts, urging peaceful demonstrations amid heightened tensions fueled by an incident involving an asylum seeker charged with sexual assault. The unrest has sparked legal challenges from at least 13 councils opposing asylum accommodations in hotels, while protests and counter-protests continue across various towns, with police maintaining a strong presence to ensure safety and order.