Hadush Kebatu, originally from Ethiopia, was sentenced to 12 months in prison after being found guilty at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court. He was convicted of two sexual assaults, harassment, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and an attempted sexual assault.
The offences took place in Epping on 7 and 8 July, just eight days after Kebatu arrived in the UK by small boat following a journey through Sudan, Libya, Italy and France.
“Disgusting and Sickening”
The court heard Kebatu tried to kiss the girl, placed his hand on her thigh, and asked her to kiss another child while he watched.
“It must have been a disgusting and sickening experience for her,” said District Judge Christopher Williams, adding: “It must have been abundantly clear to you that your behaviour was unwanted.”
In a victim statement, the girl said: “Every time I go out with my friends I am checking over my shoulder.”
Kebatu was also found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman who had tried to help him with his CV. She told the court he “took advantage of my kindness” when he touched her thigh.
Victims’ Courage Praised
Prosecutors told the court that Kebatu’s arrest sparked mass demonstrations outside The Bell Hotel in Epping, where he had been staying as an asylum seeker.
Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper of Essex Police praised the bravery of both victims.
“They came forward and trusted us with their experience and today I want to say a personal thank you to them for their courage,” he said.
The Home Office confirmed it will seek to deport Kebatu once he has served his sentence. His barrister, Molly Dyas, told the court: “Mr Kebatu’s firm wish is to be deported as soon as possible.”
Under the UK Borders Act 2007, foreign nationals sentenced to 12 months or more in prison must be subject to a deportation order.
During the trial, Kebatu denied the allegations, insisting: “I am not a wild animal, I cannot do these things, this is anti Christian. These are children, innocent children.”
But Judge Williams said Kebatu had sought to portray himself as a scapegoat, despite posing a “significant risk of reoffending.”
