An Indian-American couple in Virginia, Harmanpreet Singh (30) and Kulbir Kaur (42), have been charged with serious offenses.
A federal jury indicted them on six counts, including conspiracy to commit forced labor, alien harboring for financial gain, document servitude, conspiracy to commit bankruptcy fraud, and fraudulent transfers in the completion of bankruptcy.
The charges stem from allegations that, between March 2018 and May 2021, they forced a worker at their gas station and convenience store to provide labor and services under harsh conditions. The victim, whose immigration documents were confiscated, worked as a cashier, food preparer, cleaner, and store record manager.
The couple used coercive tactics, including physical abuse, threats, and degrading living conditions, to make the victim work long hours for meager pay. Moreover, they allegedly harbored the victim after his visa expired for their financial gain and engaged in bankruptcy-related fraud.
If found guilty of forced labor, the couple could face up to 20 years in prison, five years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and mandatory restitution.
