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16

Jun 2021

Crime
Crime

Call for modern slavery investigation into Harrogate car wash

Published: 16 Jun 2021, 16:27 BST

by Connor Creaghan, Rhys Talbot

Comment

0

Defrim Paci, sole director of Harrogate Hand Carwash & Valeting, was found guilty this week of committing modern slavery crimes against workers at a car wash in Carlisle.

harrogate-hand-car-wash
Harrogate Hand Carwash & Valeting.

A local resident has called for an investigation into a Harrogate car wash after a court found the owner guilty of modern slavery offences.

Harrogate Hand Carwash and Valeting's sole director is Defrim Paci, who was found guilty this week of committing modern slavery crimes against workers at a car wash in Carlisle.

The court heard how several staff worked long hours for little pay and were denied breaks when it was busy.

Workers also reported rat and insect infestation sightings in their "very dirty" multi-occupancy accommodation after paying for transport from their native Romania.



Read more:



  • Harrogate car wash owner found guilty of modern slavery

  • North Yorkshire Police stop 60 motorists without seatbelt





The Harrogate car wash on Sykes Grove was not implicated in the hearing but a resident who lives near it, and requested anonymity, called for an investigation in light of the court verdict. They said:

"I really never suspected anything like this.
"They really have to do some sort of investigation now. If Paci has done this at one of his businesses then they all need to be looked into."


We passed on the resident's concerns to North Yorkshire Police and asked if officers would carry out an investigation. The force did not reply.

The Stray Ferret also spoke to one of the workers at Harrogate Hand Carwash & Valeting, who wanted to remain anonymous. They said:

"I have not been working here long but I think all the workers here are fine and have no complaints.
"Friends of mine brought me here. I have not heard anything about that court case.
"I think it is a good place to work, it pays well. Paci is here sometimes and gives us food and drink."