County lines drug groomer placed under special restrictions in Reading
Police say it's the first time they've used the legislation in relation to county lines drug supply
A man has been issued with a Slavery Tracking Risk Order (STRO) in Reading.
Eugene Haylett, aged 29, of Reading, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (2/8).
This order was sought after Haylett was identified as being involved in grooming young people into drug supply in Reading.
The Slavery Trafficking Risk Order, which is in place for five years, prohibits Haylett from contacting or communicating with any child under the age of 18.
The only circumstances where he would be able to communicate or contact a child would be:
With family members;
Inadvertent or non-reasonably avoidable contact in daily life;
Or with the consent of the child’s parent or guardian who have knowledge of his offending history and has been approved in writing by social services for the area in which the child lives.
The STRO also prohibits Haylett from using more than one mobile phone, landline or SIM card.
Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Adam Wise of Reading Child Exploitation and Safeguarding Team, said:
“After a thorough investigation in to drug supply and the exploitation of children, we have secured a full Slavery Trafficking Risk Order against Eugene Haylett.
“The order puts considerable restrictions on Haylett, preventing him from having the opportunity to criminally exploit children in the future.
“This is the first time we have secured such an order in relation to County Lines Drug exploitation in Reading.
“I hope this demonstrates that Thames Valley Police will not tolerate this behaviour and that we will use legislation where appropriate to make Reading a hostile environment for those who exploit children.
“If you suspect drug dealing in your community please tell us via our website or by calling 101.”