Courts gain new powers over trafficking and exploitation offenders

New powers in relation to people convicted of human trafficking and exploitation offences came into force today.

Trafficking and exploitation prevention orders (TEPOs) can now be used by the courts to impose restrictions such as preventing someone from employing staff, working with children or vulnerable people, or travelling to certain countries for a minimum of five years. Breaching a TEPO will be a criminal offence.

Trafficking and exploitation risk orders (TEROs), which can be granted where a person has demonstrated a risk of committing a relevant offence, will come into force in October.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson commented: “We have already strengthened the law, creating a specific offence of human trafficking for the first time. Now we are making sure that action can be taken when a person poses a continuing risk.

“We are working hard to eradicate trafficking and exploitation in Scotland and providing high quality support for victims who have suffered physical and psychological harm.”

Welcoming the new orders, Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC added: "Prosecutors will apply to the court for prevention orders in appropriate cases and will prosecute those who breach such orders."