Man charged with sharing asylum seeker addresses

An employee of Serco, the company responsible for accommodating asylum seekers, faces charges of misconduct in public office for allegedly sharing the addresses of properties used for housing.

James Jobson, 62, from Costessey, appeared at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Monday. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Norwich Crown Court on September 14. The charge specifies that between August 3 and 14, Jobson, while acting as a public officer for Serco, "wilfully and without reasonable excuse, or justification" committed misconduct that amounted to an abuse of public trust.

Norfolk Police stated the charge is linked to the release of information concerning several addresses in Thetford. These locations were subsequently targeted by crowds over three consecutive nights, resulting in violent disorder within the town. The affected streets include St John's Way, Bracken Road, Clover Way, Elm Road, and Chester Way.

A spokesperson for Serco confirmed the company is cooperating fully with the police investigation. "This matter is currently being handled by the police, and we are cooperating fully. As this relates to an ongoing legal process, it would be inappropriate to comment further," the spokesperson said.

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This matter is currently being handled by the police, and we are cooperating fully. As this relates to an ongoing legal process, it would be inappropriate to comment further.