A couple has been found guilty of running a trafficking scheme involving six victims who were forced to work at a McDonald’s restaurant while their wages were stolen. Ernest Drevenak, 46, and Veronika Bubencikova, 46, targeted vulnerable individuals in the Czech Republic who were promised a better life in the UK. The victims, who were unable to speak English, were aided by the couple in securing jobs at McDonald’s, with their earnings deposited into accounts controlled by the perpetrators.
Despite working long hours, the victims received only a fraction of their wages, with Drevenak and Bubencikova pocketing the rest. The exploited individuals were also made to carry out additional tasks such as cleaning, decorating, and gardening at the couple’s properties. The illegal activities came to light in October 2019 when police intervened following reports of exploitation at the restaurant.
Specialist officers conducted an investigation that led to the arrest of Drevenak and Bubencikova. The couple faced charges including holding a person in slavery, arranging travel for exploitation, and fraud. After a trial at Cambridge Crown Court, they were convicted, with Drevenak receiving a 12-and-a-half-year sentence and Bubencikova sentenced to ten-and-a-half years in prison.
Detective Constable Nick Webber emphasized the impact of modern slavery, noting that the victims had been deceived with promises of work and accommodation in the UK. McDonald’s, in response to the case, expressed solidarity with the victims and highlighted measures taken to prevent such exploitation in the future. The fast-food chain reassured its commitment to combating modern slavery and ensuring the welfare of its employees.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of slavery and exploitation, even in seemingly ordinary workplaces. The broadcast of “Slavery on the High Street” on BBC One aims to shed light on these issues and raise awareness among the public. Authorities urge vigilance and prompt reporting of any signs of modern slavery to prevent further incidents of exploitation in communities.