Ethiopian national charged after 'sexually assaulting staff member at asylum hotel'

Southampton Magistrates’ Court

The 23-year-old Ethiopian will appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court

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PA
George Bunn

By George Bunn


Published: 21/01/2026

- 10:37

Updated: 21/01/2026

- 11:20

Melaku Gebresembet, 23, will appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court

An Ethiopian national has been charged with the sexual assault of a staff member at a hotel used to house asylum seekers.

Hampshire Constabulary has confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the alleged incident.


The incident is alleged to have taken place at a hotel in Southampton on Friday, January 16.

Melaku Gebresembet has now been charged with sexual assault.

The 23-year-old was remanded in custody to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court later today.

A spokesman from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed the suspect was an Ethiopian national.

They said: "Officers investigating a sexual assault on a staff member at Highfield House Hotel have charged a man.

"The incident, which occurred on Friday, was reported on Monday morning."

Southampton Magistrates' Court

Melaku Gebresembet will appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court today

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PA

The spokesman continued: "Following that report, officers immediately attended the hotel to take statements and identify and arrest the alleged suspect.

"We have now charged Melaku Gebresembet, 23, of Highfield Lane, Southampton, with sexual assault."

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