A MAN has been charged with a series of offences as part of an investigation into a person acting inappropriately in Epping. 

A police spokesperson said: “We were alerted to the reports in High Road, at 5.20pm on Tuesday 8 July.

Officers arrived quickly and arrested a man. 

As a result of the work of officers, we’ve now been authorised to charge Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, of High Road, Epping with:

• Three counts of sexual assault;
• ·one count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity; and 
• ·one count of harassment without violence. 

“He is due to appear in Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today, Thursday 10 July”. 

Superintendent Tim Tubbs said: “We’re aware of a significant amount of public discussion around this case – and I understand that. 

“As the police, we must be limited in what we say whilst a criminal investigation is progressing through the courts and the last thing we want is for any public discussion to hinder an ongoing prosecution.

“We’re working closely with our key partners in the area, and this means we’re all able to understand the impact this incident has had locally – and that impact is not lost on me.

“We have had continued, targeted patrols in the area since this incident and we plan for this to continue. 

“These officers are there to help and reassure you, so please feel free to approach that if you do have any wider concerns.” 

Supt Tubbs added: “Once again, I would also like to thank the members of the public who made reports to us on Tuesday evening, which allowed us to respond as quickly as possible, make an arrest and, crucially, take witness and victim statements to support our work to secure a prosecution.”