Key facts
- James Jobson, 62, has been charged with misconduct in public office.
- The charge is in connection with the release of information about asylum seeker addresses in Thetford.
- Properties identified by the leaked information were subsequently targeted during nights of violent disorder.
- Police officers were assaulted during the unrest, and 21 arrests were made.
- Jobson appeared at Ipswich Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody.
- He is scheduled to appear at Norwich Crown Court on September 14.
A Serco staff member, James Jobson, 62, has been charged with misconduct in public office for allegedly leaking addresses of asylum seeker accommodations in Thetford, Norfolk. The information was reportedly released between August 3 and 14 and subsequently used to target properties during several nights of violent disorder and anti-immigration unrest earlier this month.
During the unrest, protesters attempted to gain access to residential properties, and police officers were subjected to significant aggression, including being bitten, spat at, and hit with a rock. Norfolk Constabulary confirmed 21 arrests were made in connection with the chaos.
Jobson appeared before Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on Monday and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Norwich Crown Court on September 14. The charge states he acted "wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification," committing an abuse of public trust.
Serco, which provides housing and support for asylum seekers under contract with the Home Office, stated it is cooperating fully with the police investigation and declined further comment due to the ongoing legal process.