Phillip Curson appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court in Essex, facing a charge of violent disorder. The defendant, dressed in a white shirt and black trousers, confirmed his identity and entered a not guilty plea during a short hearing on Tuesday.
The charge stems from a protest that took place outside The Bell Hotel in Epping. The hotel has been the site of multiple demonstrations since July 13th. These protests were triggered by the arrest of an asylum seeker, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who was charged with offenses against a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu had arrived in the UK by boat just eight days prior to his arrest.
The court heard that Curson, a 41-year-old resident of Upminster in east London, is accused of violent disorder on July 17th in Epping. The specifics of the charge allege that he "used or threatened unlawful violence.
5 Comments
Matzomaster
Sometimes people react strongly to injustice. I'm not condoning violence, but I understand.
Comandante
He should've known better than to get involved in violent protests! This behavior cannot be tolerated.
Michelangelo
The protests may have started for a reason, but his actions twisted that meaning completely.
Donatello
Not guilty until proven otherwise! Let’s not jump to conclusions.
Raphael
He chose violence over dialogue. That speaks volumes about his character.