Ontario Couple Accused of Human Trafficking Pleads Not Guilty as Witness Alleges Exploitation

Bradford, ON — After numerous delays, the trial of Lauriston and Amber Maloney, accused of human trafficking, began on Monday in a Bradford courtroom. The first testimony came from a former employee who lived and worked closely with the couple, presenting a complex picture of their relationship and alleged exploitation.

Amber and Lauriston Maloney are pictured in this undated photo. (Source: Facebook)

The Maloneys, arrested over a year ago at their Essa Township residence, face multiple charges. Amber Maloney is charged with human trafficking, benefiting materially from trafficking, and administering a toxic substance. At the same time, Lauriston Maloney faces charges of assault, forcible confinement, and the same trafficking offences as his wife. Both pleaded not guilty.

Lauriston and Amber Maloney are pictured in this undated photo (Source: Facebook), alongside an Ontario Provincial Police cruiser parked outside their home in Utopia, Ont., on Thurs., July 20, 2023. (CTV News/Ian Duffy)

The testimony highlighted the Maloneys’ camp, “Beating the Odds,” a two-acre site in Utopia for children with autism, which Amber owned and operated on their family property. The witness, who met Amber on a dating app in 2016, described entering a relationship with Lauriston and Amber Maloney, moving into their home, and assisting Amber with camp operations.

“In my mind, I was in a relationship with both of them,” she stated. She added that she worked extensive hours creating therapy programs, handling client assessments, payroll, hiring, and marketing, often receiving little or inconsistent pay. Payments allegedly ranged from $50 to $100 irregularly, with room and board provided. Lauriston, she testified, advised her to seek social assistance, assuring her he’d manage other expenses.

Amber Maloney and Lauriston Maloney are pictured in this undated photo. (Source: Facebook)

The witness also recounted her relationship with the couple, describing a sexual relationship that became tense when the Maloneys expressed interest in involving a third party.

According to police records, Lauriston Maloney, who is currently out on bail along with his wife, has a criminal history involving convictions for trafficking and sexually exploiting young women. However, provincial police assured the public that no children attending “Beating the Odds” were affected by the alleged activities.

Amber and Lauriston are free on bail, with the trial set to continue on Wednesday.

The allegations against the Maloneys remain unproven, and the trial continues to examine evidence and witness testimonies.