Suspected brothel raided in Taunton

Police carried out a Search Warrant today, September 22nd  2010 at 11.03am at a suspected brothel in commercial premises in the Rowbarton area of Taunton.

In direct response to concerns raised by local people regarding anti-social behaviour linked to the address, local detectives investigated the premises before executing the warrant.

Officers entered the premises and arrested two women, thought to be from North Somerset, on suspicion of Causing and Inciting Prostitution for Gain and Controlling Prostitution for Gain. They are currently at Taunton Police Station. A man in his thirties was also arrested at a different location for offences linked to prostitution activities at the Rowbarton address.

Detective Sergeant Paul Lannigan, from Taunton CID, who led the warrant said: "Today's events have been the culmination of several months of investigation work carried out by Somerset West CID. We aim to target those who make money from this type of activity, particularly those who control or exploit others to do so, and will use the different powers available to us to enforce the law and protect the welfare of our communities."

A female neighbour said. "I am really glad the police came here today and carried out this warrant. Ideally I would like the place closed. It is awful to have something like this at the end of your street, it is embarrassing and there is a stigma attached to it – other people around Taunton know it's here. It's not nice.

"I have to walk my children past it every day and it's hard explaining why there are inappropriately dressed women standing outside."

Another neighbour added: "I was glad to see the police taking some action to stop this happening. I have teenage sons and one of them has been approached by one of the clients, who was clearly drunk, asking questions about the premises and they found it quite intimidating.

"This is a family area, there is an infants school and a park nearby and it really isn't ideal having this kind of activity going on in close proximity to young families. I am concerned that it also has a detrimental affect on the house prices in the area and the general morale and wellbeing of the community".

Inspector Sam Williams said: "We understand the negative impact this kind of activity, and premises such as this, can have on a local residents. The warrant today has been carried out to directly address the concerns of the community and we thank local residents for contacting us.

"We would welcome any member of the public who has further information about suspected prostitution in this area or their own community to come forward. You can either call your local police on 0845 456 7000 or you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, they never ask your name or trace your call."