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16
Jun 2021
Call for modern slavery investigation into Harrogate car wash
A local resident has called for an investigation into a Harrogate car wash after a court found the owner guilty of modern slavery offences.
Harrogate Hand Carwash and Valeting's sole director is Defrim Paci, who was found guilty this week of committing modern slavery crimes against workers at a car wash in Carlisle.
The court heard how several staff worked long hours for little pay and were denied breaks when it was busy.
Workers also reported rat and insect infestation sightings in their "very dirty" multi-occupancy accommodation after paying for transport from their native Romania.
Read more:
- Harrogate car wash owner found guilty of modern slavery
- North Yorkshire Police stop 60 motorists without seatbelt
The Harrogate car wash on Sykes Grove was not implicated in the hearing but a resident who lives near it, and requested anonymity, called for an investigation in light of the court verdict. They said:
We passed on the resident's concerns to North Yorkshire Police and asked if officers would carry out an investigation. The force did not reply.
The Stray Ferret also spoke to one of the workers at Harrogate Hand Carwash & Valeting, who wanted to remain anonymous. They said:
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