A shocking case of prolonged abuse and exploitation has come to light, as authorities uncover a disturbing situation that had persisted for over 25 years. Amanda Wixon, a mother of 10, has been charged with holding a woman with learning difficulties captive in her home, forcing her to work and subjecting her to regular beatings.
The victim, whose identity has been withheld for privacy reasons, was first brought to Wixon’s residence in 1995 and was effectively held as a “house slave” until her eventual escape in 2021. During this harrowing ordeal, the woman was forced to perform domestic chores and other labour, all while enduring physical abuse at the hands of her captor.
According to court documents, Wixon would regularly beat the victim, leaving her with visible injuries. The woman, who has not been named, was reportedly too afraid to seek help or escape due to the threats and intimidation tactics used by Wixon.
“This was a truly horrific case of prolonged abuse and exploitation of a vulnerable individual,” said Detective Inspector Sarah Harman, who led the investigation. “The victim was effectively held captive in that house for over a quarter of a century, forced to work tirelessly while being subjected to regular physical assaults. It’s a disturbing and heartbreaking situation.”
Wixon, now 62 years old, was arrested in June 2021 following a tip-off from a concerned neighbour. She has been charged with false imprisonment, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and modern slavery offences. The case is currently before the courts, and Wixon is facing a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
“This case serves as a stark reminder that modern slavery and human trafficking are very real issues, even in our own communities,” said Harman. “We urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or concerns to the authorities. No one should have to endure such cruelty and deprivation of their basic human rights.”
The victim, who is now receiving specialist support and counselling, is said to be recovering from the trauma, but the scars of her ordeal will likely remain for years to come. Authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to combat human trafficking and ensure that justice is served in this harrowing case.
