Woman Found Guilty of Modern Slavery After Two-Week Trial
Maria Miller, 64, of Simmons Lane, Chingford, was convicted on Friday for holding a vulnerable woman in slavery and theft at Snaresbrook Crown Court. She was found guilty of two counts of slavery or servitude and one count of theft, but cleared of grievous bodily harm with intent.
Miller faces sentencing on Tuesday, 30 July.
Victim Exploited for Years by Woman She Trusted
The court heard Miller met the victim, who has learning difficulties, while working at an animal sanctuary. In 2012, she lured the now-74-year-old woman to live with her.
Miller controlled the victim’s bank account, became executor and sole trustee of her will, and forced her to work for meals or shelter. Tasks included weeding gardens and cleaning animal shelters—often late into the night.
She was subjected to assaults, forced to sleep on the floor or in an outhouse, and went hungry for days, causing severe weight loss. Miller denied her access to a phone, money, or her own pension.
Victim Escapes After Four Years of Abuse
On 14 June 2016, the victim fled Miller’s home and reported the abuse to police. Miller was arrested a month later and eventually charged in November 2018.
“Miller targeted one of society’s most vulnerable for financial gain and treated her with appalling cruelty,” said Detective Sergeant James Earle, who led the investigation. “The victim lost nearly five years of her life with no freedom or independence. She lived in fear, with no control over her work, movements, sleep, or food.”
“She showed incredible bravery coming forward and reliving her trauma in court. Now, she is thriving in her new-found freedom.”
“This case sends a strong message: the Metropolitan Police will not tolerate abuse of the vulnerable and will bring the toughest charges where warranted.”
Thanks were also given to partner agencies who helped bring Miller to justice.
