Two men charged after arrests at Epping protest

Two men charged after arrests at Epping protest

Two individuals have been formally accused after being apprehended during a demonstration outside a hotel that serves as temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. Essex Police reported that these men, hailing from the vicinity, face charges pertaining to incidents outside the Bell Hotel in Epping on Friday evening. One of the accused was charged for failing to provide a specimen after being detained on suspicion of driving under the influence, while the other was charged with assaulting an emergency services worker.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin emphasized that while the majority of demonstrators conducted themselves safely, it is crucial to recognize that “the right to protest does not include a right to commit crime.” The protest took place on Epping High Road subsequent to the Court of Appeal overturning a temporary injunction that had prevented asylum seekers from residing there. Authorities indicated that a white car allegedly drove towards officers on the wrong side of the road as they upheld a police cordon on Friday evening.

Ross Ellis, residing in Orchard Croft, Harlow, aged 49, has been charged with failing to provide a specimen. Scheduled to appear before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, Ellis was taken into custody after officers apprehended him on suspicion of driving under the influence. Another individual was arrested at 21:20 after a law enforcement officer sustained an ankle injury. Jimmy Hillard, a 52-year-old resident of Chequers Road in Loughton, has been charged with assaulting an emergency worker and is expected to appear in court on Monday. Additionally, a third individual apprehended on suspicion of violent disorder is currently in custody.

Chief Constable Pavelin further stated, “We have collaborated closely with our counterparts at the Crown Prosecution Service overnight to bring about these charges, and the legal proceedings will progress through the courts accordingly.” He assured residents of Epping that a noticeable police presence would be maintained in the area throughout the afternoon and into the evening

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