Summary

  • Hadush Kebatu, who is accused of sexual assaults in Epping, Essex, says he is "not a wild animal" while giving evidence in his trial

  • "I can't do these kind of things," he tells Colchester Magistrates' Court, adding: "I am a Christian, it's not in my culture"

  • Earlier, a woman told the same court she was "shocked" when Kebatu allegedly put his hand on her thigh - here's what else we heard from the witness

  • Kebatu, from Ethiopia, denies all five charges against him, including sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl, harassment and inciting a child into sexual activity

  • Allegations of the incident led to a wave of anti-immigration protests and counter-demonstrations outside The Bell Hotel, where Kebatu was staying as an asylum seeker

Watch: Bodycam footage shows Hadush Kebatu's arrest

Live Reporting

Edited by Charlie Jones, with Lewis Adams and Zoie O'Brien reporting from court

  1. Court resumes in trial of Hadush Kebatu

    The trial of Hadush Kebatu, who faces allegations of sexual assault, inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and harassment without violence, resumes at Colchester Magistrates' Court today.

    Allegations surrounding the incident prompted a wave of anti-immigration protests and counter-demonstrations outside The Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, where Kebatu was staying.

    Kebatu, from Ethiopia, denies the allegations.

    The trial opened yesterday, with the court continuing to hear evidence today.

    Our reporter in court will be bringing you the latest in this page - stay with us.