A SWINDON man is to stand trial accused of human trafficking and slavery offences.

Nerijus Gudelevicius, of Melrose Close, Westlea, denied three counts of trafficking a person into the UK for the purposes of exploitation, and six of knowingly holding a person in slavery or servitude when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court yesterday.

The 33-year-old, originally from Lithuania, will now face a two-week trial, which could be transferred to Bristol Crown Court.

Yesterday, Gudelevicius appeared with the aid of a Lithuanian interpreter, and listened to the timetable for his trial being laid out.

He will now return to Swindon Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on November 28, during which time papers for the trial will be served. It is alleged that on or before March 27 of this year, Mr Gudelevicius facilitated the arrival of an individual into the country with the intention of exploiting them.

The three charges put to him at the hearing relate to three different people from Lithuania.

The remaining six alleged offences relate to a further six individuals, that on or before March 27 this year, were held in servitude in circumstances not of their control.

The offences are alleged to have taken place at two separate properties, one in Hunt Street and another at William Street, in Swindon.

If convicted, Gudelevicius could face up to 14 years in prison. These are very serious matters which, if proven, will carry a very lengthy sentence,” said James Burnham, speaking for the prosecution at an earlier hearing.

“A number of people would have been affected over a period of time.”

Eight Lithuanian nationals were discovered at the two separate locations after a significant police operation carried out in Swindon on March 27.

They were taken into the care of Wiltshire Police and various partnership agencies while they received continued support.

Mr Gudelevicius was released on conditional bail following the hearing.

Madelaine Power, defending, said: “The conditions of bail are that Mr Gudelevicius is not to visit 12 Hunt Street or 80A William Street in Swindon, and not to contact any of the victims in this case.” Judge Tim Mousley QC, presiding, told him: “I will grant you the same bail conditions again. You must return to this court for another hearing on November 28. If you breach any of the conditions you may find yourself in custody.

“If you fail to attend on 28 November you commit an offence punishable with imprisonment.”