Asylum seeker damages hotel windows to return to jail

A homeless asylum seeker broke multiple windows at a migrant hotel because he wanted to return to jail. Farhad Hosnavi, 25, caused £5,000 worth of damage by smashing 14 windows at the hotel in Norwich on December 3, 2024. During the incident, he was heard shouting inappropriate comments towards the police. Hosnavi has a history of similar offenses and had previously lived in the hotel until January 2024. He was removed after being found with a knife. His first attack occurred on April 13, and he struck again on May 13, which led to a 16-week jail sentence. However, he carried out another attack on the day he was released. His lawyer explained that Hosnavi was committing these acts to get a roof over his head, as he was struggling with homelessness. The prosecuting attorney suggested that his actions were a form of revenge, as he had faced serious consequences for his past behavior. Hosnavi admitted to the charges, but his sentencing has been postponed until April 30 to review his asylum application. A judge indicated that a prison sentence is likely, though the length remains to be determined. Currently, Hosnavi has not faced deportation, which typically happens only after a jail sentence of a year or more. Meanwhile, government figures show that over 38,000 migrants are being housed in hotels at a significant cost to the public.