Man goes on trial charged with sexually assaulting school girl near Essex high street
It's alleged to have happened over two days in Epping in July.
Last updated 26th Aug 2025
A man charged with sexually assaulting a school girl near an Essex high street has gone on trial.
Hadush Kebatu - has denied five charges, alleged to have happened over two days in Epping in July.
It's been a tense courtroom this morning. The defendant - who had an interpreter - appeared in the dock wearing a tracksuit and spoke only to confirm his identity.
A fourteen year old girl appeared via video link.
Her police video interview was played in court where she said the asylum seeker tried to kiss her multiple times, told her he wanted a baby from her and her friend, and she said he "kept wanting us to come back to the Bell Hotel with him".
During this, family and friends were clearly in distress. Kebatu had his head in his hands, shaking it occasionally.
The trial continues.