A man has become the eleventh person to be jailed following violent disorder in Epping last summer.
Keith Silk, 34, of Torrington Drive, Loughton, was sentenced today after being convicted of violent disorder and criminal damage at a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on June 1.
The offences took place during a protest on July 17, 2025.
Silk was sentenced to two years and 11 months in prison on November 10.
Chief Inspector Terry Fisher, Epping Forest and Brentwood district commander, said: "Each of these sentences is a reminder of the impact of this disorder – the community in Epping was left scared and anxious, daily life was disrupted and businesses felt the effect of closing early, with the town’s reputation affected.
"Whilst many people who wanted their voices to be heard on an important issue did that safely, a number chose to behave well beyond that, and these convictions and sentences show that behaviour is and was entirely unacceptable."
Evidence including body-worn camera footage, drone recordings, and social media videos showed Silk carrying eggs and beer at the protest.
He was seen throwing beer at a police carrier, damaging a sign outside the Bell Hotel, and shouting at officers.
A total of 11 men have now been convicted and sentenced in connection with this specific protest, receiving immediate custodial sentences totalling more than 23 years.
A further 11 people have also been convicted and sentenced for related offences during the Epping protests.
Those convicted range in age from 18 to their 50s and faced charges including criminal damage, assaulting emergency workers, racially aggravated public order offences, and failing to comply with protest conditions or remove face coverings.
Sentences included community orders, fines, and suspended sentences.
The Bell Hotel became the focus of protests after resident Hadush Kebatu sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl.
Multiple demonstrations were held over the summer in 2025, which spilled into the town centre at one point.
Kebatu was found guilty of five offences, including sexual assault, and jailed.
He was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford last October before he was detained and deported to Ethiopia.
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