Human Trafficking – New Powers Now in Force

New measures introduced under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 that give police and prosecutors more powers to detect, prosecute and prevent exploitation are now in force.

Police can now apply to courts for a Trafficking and Exploitation Risk Order (TERO) when they believe there is a risk someone may commit a trafficking or exploitation offence. This means the suspect is effectively banned from a range of activity with potential restrictions on movement within the UK or on internet use.

Earlier this year, the Act introduced the Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Order (TEPO), which came into force on 30th June. 

A TEPO can be made at the point of sentencing or by a court application by Police. A TERO can be made on the basis of strong suspicion by Police that the person may commit such an offence. Once granted by the court, restrictions placed through a TERO would protect others from psychological and physical harm.

TEPOs have a fixed period of five years, and two years for a TERO, and a breach of either order is a criminal offence.

“Trafficking and exploitation is challenging and complex to investigate,” said Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson, Police Scotland. “The new Human Trafficking and Exploitation Orders give our officers additional powers to build our intelligence picture and tackle those who traffick and exploit others for gain."

"I welcome the introduction of Trafficking and Exploitation Risk Orders,” added the Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC. “The Orders provide Scotland with an additional tool to tackle the global trade in human beings and prevent both physical and psychological harm.” 

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