Wellingborough man handed three-year order to protect children from slavery and trafficking exploitation

Leo Bentley was handed the Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order (STRO) at Northampton Magistrates Court on October 30 following an application by Northamptonshire Police's child exploitation hub disruption team.

The three-year order will remain in place until October 29, 2029, and places a number of restrictions on Bentley designed to protect children and prevent further exploitation.

Sergeant Joe Legg from Northamptonshire Police's child exploitation hub said: “Protecting children from exploitation is a priority for Northamptonshire Police and we will use all available powers to safeguard young people who may be at risk.

“This order places significant restrictions on Leo Bentley's activities and provides us with additional opportunities to monitor and manage the risk he poses.

“The aim is not only to prevent further children from being exploited, but also to support Bentley in moving away from criminality and making positive changes to his life.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to identify, disrupt and pursue those who seek to exploit children for criminal gain.”

Among the conditions, Bentley is prohibited from arranging or facilitating travel or accommodation for children, communicating directly or indirectly with anyone under the age of 18, possessing electronic communication devices without notifying police, and possessing any drug paraphernalia.

He is also required to notify police of any devices and vehicles in his possession and comply with a range of additional restrictions aimed at safeguarding children and vulnerable people.

The order was secured after Bentley was repeatedly brought to the attention of police in connection with concerns around the criminal exploitation of children.

Breaching the conditions of a Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order is a criminal offence and could result in imprisonment.