Two men have been charged following a chilling probe into rape and modern slavery in Southampton. Police swooped on 12 suspects in a major raid on Tuesday, July 18.
After extending detentions, cops have now charged two men, released six under investigation, and freed four with no further action.
Shock Charges in Southampton Rape and Slavery Case
Valentine Merclusca, 49, from Avenue Road, faces two counts of rape plus two offences under the Modern Slavery Act. Marius Stefan, 42, also from Avenue Road, is charged with two counts of rape.
Victim Speaks Out
The charges follow a 19-year-old woman’s harrowing report. She said she was raped multiple times at an address in Southampton between July 9 and July 18.
Both men are due to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on Saturday, July 22.
