Colin Witcher’s client acquitted after complex and unusual human trafficking trial

Following a five week trial at Southwark Crown Court, Colin Witcher‘s client has been acquitted of both human trafficking and being party to a conspiracy to control prostitution.

The defendant was alleged to be a member of a Serious Organised Crime Group, who trafficked women with a view to exploitation through allegedly controlling prostitution. The global offending covered an alleged five year period, where the defendant was said to have deputised for the first defendant and was involved in an operational and managerial function.

Appearing alone, Colin argued that there was in operation, as far as the defendant was aware, a perfectly legitimate agency, which fell outside the definition of control. Further, he argued that the defendant’s role was limited within the alleged activities of the wider group, and that he was not party to any criminal conspiracy.

The case brought into sharp focus the reality of willing high-earning professional escorts, and those that support and work for the agencies to which they often belong. The complexity of such cases is that whilst it is legal to be a sex worker and it is legal to pay for sex, it is illegal to control the activities of prostitution. Thus, in theory, even an agency that exists to protect the interest of the sex workers can be considered to be controlling if they take a fee for the provision of such services.

In that regard, the Crown does not need to prove pressure, force, or coercion, and control can include giving a direction or instruction – it is for the jury to determine and apply in any given case.

Colin Witcher was instructed and greatly assisted by Anna Ford of Shearman Bowen Solicitors. Their client was acquitted of all counts that he faced by the Jury.