Man who admitted violence outside asylum seeker hotel warned jail 'likely'

A judge tells the man who joined the protest outside the hotel he will probably end up behind bars.

Tuesday 2 September 2025 15:57, UK

Multiple demonstrations have been held outside the Essex hotel. Pic: PA
Image: Multiple demonstrations have been held outside the Essex hotel. Pic: PA
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A man who admitted violence outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Essex has been warned by a judge he will "likely" be jailed.

Martin Peagram pleaded guilty to violent disorder after protesting outside The Bell Hotel in Epping on 17 July.

At Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday he was told he will not be sentenced until next month, but judge Jamie Sawyer told the court: "Mr Peagram must understand the likely sentence will be an immediate prison sentence."

Peagram, 33, of Loughton in Essex, who wore a dark blue tracksuit and was brought up from the cells to the dock in handcuffs, said "thank you" before he was led back. He was remanded in custody until sentencing on 6 October.

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Joseph Lord, representing Peagram, asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared about the defendant.

Judge Sawyer agreed, adding: "I'm not ruling out an immediate prison sentence.

"The most likely outcome I'm afraid is an immediate prison sentence."

More from UK

Multiple demonstrations have been held outside The Bell Hotel in Epping since 13 July after an asylum seeker was charged with the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl.

His trial began last week and is due to conclude later this week.