Barrie Drewitt-Barlow charged in Essex trafficking and rape case

Barrie Drewitt-Barlow and another man have been charged following an Essex Police investigation into human trafficking, sexual exploitation and rape-related offences.

Police said the charges were brought after co-ordinated searches at premises in Danbury, Maldon and Braintree on Wednesday.

Two men were arrested during the operation and have since been liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service.

The case has also affected local disruption in Maldon.

Polling at the Drewitt-Barlow Stadium, home to Maldon and Tiptree FC, was moved to Blackwater Leisure Centre because of the ongoing police investigation.

The charges involve arranging or facilitating travel of another person with a view to exploitation, along with a number of sexual offences, including the rape of a man.

Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, 57, is a co-owner of the football club with Scott Drewitt-Barlow, 32.

The investigation has drawn attention because of Drewitt-Barlow's public profile and his role in the football club.

Detectives were seen at the stadium earlier in the week, and his mansion was also searched.

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