Thames Valley Crime Trio Jailed for 26 Years After Major Milton Keynes Crackdown
Three men have been slammed with hefty prison sentences after a ruthless Thames Valley Police operation ripped apart a criminal racket in Milton Keynes. The gang was found guilty of drug dealing, running prostitution rings, and exploiting vulnerable women.
Heavy Sentences for Milton Keynes Crime Gang
- Catalin Lupau, 34, from Arncliffe Drive, Milton Keynes – 9 years behind bars
- Bogdan Stoican, 31, from Willow Way, Potters Bar – 8 years imprisonment
- George Pandele, 27, from Swasedale Road, Luton – 9 years sentenced
The trio faced justice at Amersham Crown Court on 11 November 2025. They were convicted on 24 October by a jury for conspiracy to control prostitution for profit, human trafficking for exploitation, supplying Class A drugs, and managing a brothel.
Year-Long Probe Ends with Raid on Drug and Prostitution Den
The investigation kicked off in October 2024, targeting a block of flats on Milburn Avenue that served as a hub for drug trafficking and forced prostitution. Lupau, Stoican, and Pandele ran the high-earning illegal operation.
On 2 April 2025, police stormed two addresses in Milton Keynes, arresting the men. After numerous antisocial behaviour complaints from neighbours, Thames Valley Police slapped the largest closure order in their history on the 24-flat building, banning all but emergency workers and authorised contractors.
Top Cop Hails Police and Community Teamwork
Detective Sergeant James Faithfull said: “This is an excellent result following a lengthy and complex investigation which means that Lupau, Stoican and Pandele will now face the consequences for their actions.
“These sentences are a testament to the hard work of the investigation team and partner agencies. We safeguarded 18 women and improved residents’ lives by shutting down this notorious block.
“This closure shows how police, community, and council working together can drive out criminality causing misery.”
He urged locals to keep reporting antisocial behaviour, saying: “We will listen and act. Call 101 or report online. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
