A ROMANIAN man has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged under the Modern Slavery Act with exploitation of a female and controlling her for the purpose of prostitution.

Ionut Pompiliu Barosu, 26, of Accrington Road, Blackburn, was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court where he will appear on December 17.

Appearing with him a female, Ionela Fieraru, 29, of the same address, pleaded guilty to possessing an electrical stun gun.

She was committed in custody to the Crown Court for sentence. She will also appear on December 17.