5 people now charged in connection with Epping protests
A total of five men have now been charged following protests in Epping
A total of five men have now been charged following protests in Epping in recent weeks.
This follows a series of protests relating to The Bell Hotel, which Essex Police say began peacefully but 'escalated to the point of disorder and criminal damage'.
The force say there will continue to be a very visible policing presence in Epping to ensure the safety of the community and to hear concerns raised.
They're urging anyone with concerns or information they feel the police need to know, to contact them.
In a statement today, Essex Police say they have charges of violent disorder against:
• Jonathan Glover, 47, of Springfields, Waltham Abbey. He remains on conditional bail.
• Stuart Williams, 36, of Duck Lane, Thornwood, Epping. Remanded in custody.
• Keith Silk, 33, of Torrington Drive, Loughton. On conditional bail.
• Dean Smith, 51, of Madells, Epping. Remanded in custody.
All are next due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on 18th August.
Joe McKenna, 34, of Highcliffe Road, Wickford, is charged with failing to remove a face covering when directed to do so.
He remains on bail until a hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 24th September.
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: “As I’ve consistently said throughout our policing of this matter, this isn’t about preventing or limiting people’s lawful right to express their views and protest.
“Those who exercise this right in a peaceful manner have nothing to worry about.
“This is about preventing violent disorder and keeping the public safe.
“We will not hesitate to make arrests when criminality takes place.
“We remain impartial at all times and have legal responsibilities to ensure peaceful protest is facilitated.
"Our priority during the policing of each protest is the safety of everyone there, and we’ve used tried and tested public order tactics to achieve this.”
Rebecca Mundy, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East of England said: “I would like to remind all concerned that there are active criminal proceedings against those charged, and they have the right to a fair trial.
“There must be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online that may in any way prejudice these proceedings.”