London man becomes first person in Suffolk to be handed a Slavery Trafficking Protection Order after forcing teenagers to carry drugs against their will

A 24-year-old man has become the first in Suffolk to receive a Slavery Trafficking Protection Order, after he was convicted of forcing vulnerable teenagers to transport drugs.

At Ipswich Crown Court last Thursday, Peter Casey, from northwest London, was jailed for five years and three months after pleading guilty to arranging or facilitating the travel of an individual for exploitation.

The court also issued a restraining order and a Slavery Trafficking Prevention Order (STPO) for 12 years.

This is the first time a person has been served a STPO in Suffolk's history.

On July 22, 2022, a teenager who had been reported missing was sighted in Ipswich.

The vehicle they were travelling in was traced to Scrivener Road, Ipswich, and the car's four occupants – which included a 16-year-old boy and girl – were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs.

During a subsequent investigation, it was found that Peter Casey had been arranging for the travel of young people around the country.

He was forcing them to transport drugs against their will – an offence he was subsequently charged with.

Detective Inspector Thomas Pearse said: "Casey’s sentence represents the first conviction under the modern slavery act in Suffolk, following the introduction of the legislation in 2015.

"Officers are acutely aware that serious and organised criminals will look to avoid responsibility by using young and vulnerable people to carry out their illicit activities.

"On this occasion the young people found with the drugs were treated as victims, with the male responsible for co-ordinating their activity rightly convicted for his role.

"Protecting young and vulnerable people whilst simultaneously targeting criminals who exploit them, remains a priority across the entire constabulary.

"As well as a significant sentence, officers and colleagues from the Crown Prosecution Service successfully sought a Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Order that will see Casey subjected to restrictions for twelve years on his release.

"Particular thanks should go to Detective Constable Dawson who worked tirelessly on the investigation to secure the conviction."