An Australian couple are said to have held several women between the ages of 17 and 24 as sex slaves – some of which have been labeled as “owned” by the man, according to a report.
Matthew James Markcrow, 35, and his girlfriend Crystal Marie Sawyer, 23, appeared in a Brisbane court on Friday after police discovered evidence to support “sexual servitude and organized prostitution” during raids in Queensland this week, the news reported. .com.au.
Police claim that the victims were drugged while in controlled living, financial and working conditions.
Photos posted on social media by Markcrow also show tattoos with some of the women’s branding as “Property of Matt M,” the vehicle said.
Markcrow was accused of practicing illegal prostitution, making recordings that violate privacy, violating an order about electronic information and conducting a business involving sexual servitude for a girl under 18.
Sawyer has been accused of practicing illegal prostitution and violating an order on electronic information, news.com.au reported.
Markcrow was held in custody while his girlfriend was bailed – despite claims that she exercised control over women and concerns that she might run the business during her boyfriend’s absence.
“The police watched other girls follow Sawyer’s lead during the search … she demonstrated a degree of control over the other girls,” said the police sergeant. Mark Hughes.
Defense attorney Lily Berkeley argued that there was no firm evidence that Sawyer was involved in the deal and said the charges were brought “somewhat prematurely”.
The judge gave Sawyer bail on the condition that she did not contact the witnesses and report to the police twice a week.