Three protesters jailed over violent disorder outside Epping asylum hotel

Three men—Martin Peagram, Dean Smith, and Stuart Williams—have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 22 to 28 months for their involvement in violent disorder outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex. The hotel was housing asylum seekers and had become the focus of protests following sexual assault incidents involving an asylum seeker, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who was jailed for 12 months. The disorder occurred during the third protest on July 17, which saw around 500 demonstrators and 50 counter-protesters. Earlier protests on July 12 and 13 were relatively peaceful. During the July 17 event, police faced sustained attacks for over four hours, including being pushed, punched, and having missiles thrown at them. Police vehicles were also damaged. The violence led to the early closure of nearby businesses and required support from neighboring police forces, including the Metropolitan Police, to maintain order. This case marks the first sentencing for violent disorder linked to protests outside the Bell Hotel.