Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Brothel raids pair charged
Bail refused as suspects a ‘flight risk’
A MAN and a woman have been remanded in custody over charges related to brothel-keeping.
Gerald Corrigan (62), of Park View, Pomeroy, Co Tyrone and Mavie Martins Mariano (47), of Rockview Crescent, Belleeks, Co Armagh appeared separately via videolink before Dungannon Magistrates Court yesterday.
They have both been charged with human trafficking, controlling prostitution, brothel-keeping and money laundering between March 2020 and November 2022.
Mariano was described in court as being the “driving force” behind operations in Northern Ireland.
District Judge Peter Magill rejected bail applications for both of the defendants and listed the case to be heard again on December 21.
A PSNI officer told the court she could connect Corrigan to the charges.
She described a proactive investigation into human trafficking for sexual exploitation, and that it has been established that vulnerable sex workers are being trafficked around Northern Ireland for the purpose of sexual exploitation by the accused.
The officer said a vast amount of money, more than £150,000, transferred between the two suspects, and described CCTV evidence and statements that Corrigan drove sex workers between brothels for money.
“Ms Mariano is involved in renting accommodation throughout Northern Ireland for sex work in return for money, Mr Corrigan then transports escorts,” she told the court.
“Ms Mariano has admitted that she is in regular contact with escorts and arranges short-term rentals for them for sex work and makes a gain from this by charging £50.”
Judge Magill said there is a fear of further offences and interference with witnesses, as well as a fear of flight, and he refused bail.