Man jailed for modern day slavery after exploiting vulnerable victims
A man has been jailed after coercing vulnerable victims into drug supply as part of a modern day slavery case.
Craig Rogers, 30 of Harewood Rise, was sentenced at Bradford Crown Court on Friday (Mar 12) after pleading guilty to two counts of modern day slavery.
Bradford District’s Precision team carried out an investigation with Keighley Neighbourhood Policing Team after two vulnerable victims who resided on Harewood Road had been taken advantage of by Rogers.
A court heard they were unwillingly coerced and forced into the supply and storage of Class A drugs, they had their home addresses taken over by Rogers, who stole their benefit payments and forced them to work for no pay.
Both victims were subjected to threats, assaults and intimidation.
Rogers was jailed for five years and 10 months.
Inspector John Barker head of Keighley Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This case highlights the devastating reality of modern slavery and exploitation that can occur behind closed doors.
“No one should ever be made to live in fear in their own home.
“Thanks to the bravery of the victims we have been able to safeguard those involved and bring the offender to justice.
“Information from the community remains vital, and we encourage anyone with concerns about exploitation or suspicious activity to come forward so we can take action quickly.”