The War on Porn Regular Updates about the Assault on The Adult Industry
Related Articles
Nine people connected to a pornography business are set to stand trial in the Czech Republic on human trafficking charges after prosecutors alleged they lured young women with promises of modeling work before coercing them into appearing in pornographic films.
The defendants have denied the allegations. Their defense is expected to argue that the women voluntarily agreed to participate in the productions and signed contracts that clearly outlined the nature of the videos.
According to investigators, the group promoted modeling opportunities for women over the age of 18 between 2016 and 2019, but authorities claim the advertisements concealed the true purpose of the recruitment.
“Detectives concluded that these offers were no more than a veil for the production and subsequent distribution of pornographic films,” the Czech organized crime unit (NCOZ) said.
Authorities said many of the women experienced lasting consequences after taking part in the productions.
“Many manifested psychological and health problems and had to seek medical aid including long-term treatment,” the NCOZ said, adding that investigators believe hundreds of women may have been affected.
The case brought by the State Prosecutors’ Bureau centers on 18 women identified as victims. Prosecutor’s office spokesman Aleš Cimbala said prosecutors will argue that those behind the operation subjected the women to increasing pressure throughout the recruitment process.
“At casting, the organizers created the impression of a rush or played down the importance of the agreements signed” in order to secure the women’s consent, he said.
The indictment spans 629 pages.
Prague has long been recognized as a hub for the adult entertainment industry. Following the 1989 Velvet Revolution, which brought an end to communist rule in former Czechoslovakia, looser censorship rules and the country’s shift to a market economy attracted pornography producers to the region.
If convicted, the defendants could face prison sentences of up to 12 years, according to Prague city prosecutors.
“The accused include people organizing the Czech Casting project, as well as people ensuring finances, casting production and agreements,” Cimbala said.
He added that photographers, camera operators and actors are also among those facing charges.
