A 62-year-old man employed by Serco, a company that provides accommodation for asylum seekers, has been charged with misconduct in public office. James Jobson, of Highlow Road, Costessey, near Norwich, appeared at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Monday following accusations that he shared the addresses of properties housing asylum seekers.
The charges relate to events occurring between 3 and 14 August. Prosecutors allege that while acting as a public officer employed by Serco, Jobson "wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification" committed misconduct that "amounted to an abuse of the public's trust in the office." Norfolk Police stated the charge is directly connected to the release of information regarding several addresses in Thetford, including homes on St John's Way, Bracken Road, Clover Way, Elm Road, and Chester Way. These locations were subsequently targeted by crowds during three nights of violent disorder in the town earlier this month.
Following his appearance in court, Jobson was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Norwich Crown Court on 14 September. A spokesperson for Serco confirmed that the firm is cooperating fully with the police investigation, adding that because the matter is part of an ongoing legal process, it would be inappropriate to provide further comment.
