A chilling investigation spanning three years has brought down a couple who preyed on vulnerable women, turning their lives into a source of immense profit. Luigi Cucu and Costela Soare, from Smethwick, were finally brought to justice for orchestrating a network of exploitation that stretched across the country.
The case began with a disturbing discovery: online advertisements openly offering women for prostitution. These posts triggered a meticulous investigation by the West Midlands Police Major Crime Team, slowly unraveling a web of deceit and control.
Evidence revealed a calculated scheme where Cucu and Soare systematically exploited women, profiting handsomely from their suffering. The couple amassed an estimated £734,400 by facilitating sexual services to men throughout the nation, demonstrating the scale of their callous operation.
Cucu faced charges of arranging travel for exploitation and controlling prostitution for financial gain. He ultimately pleaded guilty at Wolverhampton Crown Court, acknowledging the gravity of his crimes and receiving a sentence of nine years and seven months in prison.
Soare, also admitting guilt to controlling prostitution for gain, was sentenced to three years and two months behind bars. Her involvement underscored the collaborative nature of their exploitation, highlighting the shared responsibility for the harm inflicted.
Detective Constable Mahadi Hasan, leading the complex investigation, emphasized the painstaking effort required to gather evidence and understand the full extent of the abuse endured by the victims. The team worked tirelessly to piece together the couple’s crimes and provide crucial support to those harmed.
Beyond the convictions, a critical focus remained on safeguarding the victims and ensuring their well-being. The successful prosecution of Cucu and Soare represents a significant step towards protecting vulnerable individuals from similar exploitation and bringing perpetrators to account.
