A 23-year-old Ethiopian national has been formally charged with sexual assault following an alleged incident at a hotel in Southampton that is currently being used to accommodate asylum seekers. The suspect, identified as Melaku Gebresembet, is set to appear before magistrates on Wednesday, according to police statements.
Details of the Alleged Incident
Hampshire Constabulary confirmed that they are investigating a reported sexual assault on a staff member at the Highfield House Hotel, located on Highfield Lane in the Portswood area of Southampton. The alleged incident is said to have occurred on Friday, with the report being made to authorities on Monday morning.
Police officers responded promptly to the report, attending the hotel to gather statements and identify the suspect. Following their investigation, Melaku Gebresembet, who resides at Highfield Lane in Southampton, was arrested and subsequently charged with sexual assault. He has been remanded in custody pending his court appearance.
Background of the Hotel
The Highfield House Hotel has been a focal point for both anti-immigration protests and counter-demonstrations by groups such as Stand Up To Racism. This establishment has repeatedly been used by the government to house asylum seekers, making it a site of significant public and political attention in recent times.
The charging of an individual in connection with an alleged sexual assault at this location adds another layer to the ongoing debates surrounding asylum accommodation and community safety in Southampton.
