An Australian couple allegedly detained several young women between the ages of 17 and 24 as sex slaves – some of whom were described as the man’s “property”.
Matthew James Markcrow, 35, and his girlfriend Crystal Marie Sawyer, 23, appeared in a Brisbane court on Friday after police uncovered evidence to support “sexual servitude and organized prostitution” during raids in Queensland, news.com reported. au.
Police allege that the victims were intoxicated while being subjected to controlled living, financial and working conditions.
Photos posted by Markcrow on social media also show that tattoos label some of the women as “Property of Matt M”.
Markcrow is charged with illegal prostitution, taking pictures in violation of privacy, violating an electronic information order and running a sexual servitude business of a girl under 18.
Sawyer is charged with illegal prostitution and violating an electronic information order, news.com.au reports.
Markcrow was detained while his girlfriend was granted bail – despite allegations that she exercised control over the women and that she could run the business in the absence of her boyfriend.
“The police noticed that other girls were following Sawyer’s guidance during the search … she showed some control over the other girls,” police general said. Mark Hughes.
Defense attorney Lily Berkeley argued that there was no solid evidence that Sawyer was involved in the business and said the charges were brought ‘somewhat prematurely’.
The judge granted bail to Sawyer on condition that she not contact the witnesses and report to the police twice a week.