Seven men have appeared before Chelmsford Crown Court today (Monday, August 18) in connection with violent disorder during protests outside The Bell Hotel in Epping earlier this summer.

The demonstrations began in July 2025, after one resident of the hotel – which is currently housing asylum seekers – was charged with sexual offences, including the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl. The incident sparked weeks of heated protests, during which violence broke out, prompting a heavy police presence and multiple arrests.

Guilty pleas entered

• Dean Smith, 51, of Madells, Epping, admitted violent disorder. Judge Jamie Sawyer warned him an immediate prison sentence is likely when he is sentenced on October 6.

• Stuart Williams, 36, of Duck Lane, Thornwood, also pleaded guilty to violent disorder. He has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.

 

Not guilty pleas and trials

• Lee Gower, 43, of High Street, Epping, denied violent disorder and assaulting a police officer after allegedly grabbing an officer’s vest.

• Shaun Thompson, 37, of Western Avenue, Epping, is accused of violent disorder after allegedly attacking police vehicles during the protest. He denies the charge but has admitted criminal damage at a previous hearing.

• Keith Silk, 33, of Loughton, denied violent disorder and criminal damage after allegedly damaging the Bell Hotel sign.

Cases still pending

• Jonathan Glover, 47, of Springfields, Waltham Abbey, faces a charge of violent disorder. His defence is seeking to have the case dismissed, with a hearing scheduled for September 22.

• Aaron Elles, 29, of The Lawn, Harlow, who had previously admitted violent disorder and cannabis possession, is now seeking to vacate his guilty plea to violent disorder. His case has been adjourned until September 15.

Judge issues warnings

Judge Sawyer stressed that those who admitted guilt should expect custodial sentences:

“Given the nature of what occurred around The Bell Hotel in Epping, the only likely sentence will be an immediate prison sentence.”

All seven men will return to court either for sentencing or further hearings in September and October, with some cases likely to proceed to trial.