Three individuals involved in a human trafficking ring, which coerced women from Eastern Europe into sex work across the southwest of England, including Gloucestershire, have been sentenced to jail time.
The group's leader, 52-year-old Maciej Kozlowski, previously residing in Gloucester, was found guilty not only of human trafficking but also of raping one of the women later exploited by the group.
The investigation, conducted by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit in collaboration with Gloucestershire Constabulary and Wiltshire Police, revealed that Kozlowski orchestrated the trafficking operation using various aliases, with 57-year-old Piotr Lebek, formerly of Gloucester, serving as his primary accomplice. Lebek's tasks included transporting victims between brothels, collecting payments, and reporting back to Kozlowski on their earnings.
Agata Jankowska, 37, from Gloucester, handled victims' flight arrangements into the UK and controlled certain communication devices used to schedule their appointments. Lidia Grzybowska, 45, from Scotland, managed the other phones used for bookings, with both women impersonating the sex workers, depriving the victims of agency and control.
The trio—Kozlowski, Lebek, and Jankowska—pleaded guilty to trafficking at least 20 women over a two-year period, primarily from Poland, to work in brothels across various locations. Kozlowski received a 14-year prison sentence, Lebek seven years and six months, and Jankowska three years and four months. All three will be registered as Sexual Offenders for five years.
Further investigations led to the collection of substantial evidence, including records of the group's movements, thousands of messages coordinating appointments, photographs for online advertisements, financial transactions, and purchases of supplies like bedding and condoms.
Detective Superintendent Charlotte Tucker, leading the investigation, condemned the group's exploitation of vulnerable women, expressing hope that the sentences would provide closure to the victims and encourage others to report suspicions of similar crimes.
Detective Inspector Rory Ainslie from Gloucestershire Constabulary's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit commended the victims for their courage in coming forward and supporting the prosecution. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in combating such crimes and ensuring victims receive adequate support throughout the legal process.