Three-Year Probe Cracks Down on Modern Slavery
After a brutal three-year investigation, law enforcement has locked up a couple responsible for trafficking and exploiting more than a dozen women. The pair were caught following intelligence linking them to online ads that offered women for prostitution.
Smethwick Duo Arrested and Charged
Luigi Cucu, 46, and Costela Soare, 37, both from Smethwick, Sandwell, were arrested in March 2023. Cucu faced charges including organising travel for exploitation and controlling prostitution for profit. Soare was charged with controlling prostitution for gain.
Hard Justice at Wolverhampton Crown Court
At Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 21, both pleaded guilty. Cucu was slammed with a hefty nine years and seven months behind bars. Soare received a three year and two month jail term for her part in the appalling crimes.
This case shines a spotlight on the ongoing fight against human trafficking and modern slavery in the UK, sending a strong message to those exploiting vulnerable women for profit.