Man arrested for not paying male prostitutes
Police in London have announced the arrest of a 37-year-old man suspected of hiring male sex workers and not paying for them.
The man, arrested in Bangor, north Wales, has been linked to 17 offences including counts of obtaining services by deception, two allegations of theft, one of administering a substance with intent and one allegation of rape.
He has been bailed to return in May as police continue their investigations.
Last summer support workers at SW5, a sexual health clinic for sex workers, alerted police about a man who was hiring male prostitutes and not paying for their services.
An investigation was launched by Southwark community support unit, on behalf of the Metropolitan police.
The unit worked closely with website Gaydar and details of the suspect were circulated throughout the UK.
LGBT Liaison Officers spoke to numerous male sex workers and others who use Gaydar.
PC Russell Pritchard, LGBT Liaison Officer for Southwark Police, who co-ordinated the investigation, told PinkNews.co.uk:
“A number of male escorts made the decision to place their trust in the police and report these crimes.
“If there is anyone who believes they have been a victim of a similar offence, they should contact us on 020 7232 6159, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.”
