An asylum seeker staying at a migrant hotel in Epping started crying as he was arrested by police for allegedly trying to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Video footage shows Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, become tearful as officers handcuffed and arrested him on suspicion of sexual assault.
The footage was played during his ongoing trial at Colchester Magistrates’ Court. Kebatu was staying at the Bell Hotel when he reportedly tried to kiss the schoolgirl after she offered him a bite of her pizza. During the footage shown in court, a police officer tells the 38-year-old: “I’m arresting you on suspicion of sexual assault of a female under 16 years old.”
Kebatu can be seen sitting in the back of a police car with its blue lights flashing on July 8. He is wearing a blue tracksuit top and was read his rights by an officer.
He then asks the officer: “How much minutes?” The officer replies: “You’re going to the police station now. So you’re under arrest.”
He then invites Kebatu out of the car and adds: “I’m going to cuff you as well.” The 38-year-old then stands up and holds his arms out to be handcuffed.
It is at this point that he becomes tearful. The police officer tells him: “Don’t cry, it’s going to be okay.”
He then says: “Step onto the pavement so I’ve got a bit more room. You can leave your shoes on. It’s okay.”
The footage, which was shown at a hearing on Wednesday, August 27, also shows Kebatu getting onto his knees before the officer tells him to “stand up”. The asylum seeker denies five charges including sexual assault.
The trial peviously heard how Kebatu is alleged to have initially approached two girls on July 7. He reportedly put his hand on one of the girl’s thighs and attempting to kiss her again the following day.
The girl told police she “froze” during the alleged incident and told him “no, I’m 14”. The alleged victim said the defendant responded “no, no, it doesn’t matter, you could come back to the Bell Hotel with me”.
The court was told Kebatu suggested that relationships between older men and younger girls was something that occurred in his home country.