A WOMAN has appeared in front of a judge and admitted sex trafficking crimes having run a Carlisle brothel.

When 29-year-old Ana Stefan appeared the city’s crown court in January, she pleaded not guilty to three charges and her case was adjourned ahead of a trial.

But when Stefan returned to the court this morning (Thursday) the charges were put to her again and she entered three guilty pleas, putting forward a formal basis for her admissions.

Stefan admitted two offences of arranging or facilitating travel of two other women with a view to exploitation.

She further admitted a charge of controlling prostitution for gain, having intentionally controlled the activities of other persons relating to their prostitution in any part of the world.

The charge states that she did so for — or in the expectation of — gain for herself or a third party.

Defence lawyer Andrew Gurney confirmed that “significant progress” had been achieved during out-of-court discussions with the prosecution since the last hearing.

A document sent to the court outlined the precise basis for Stefan’s admissions of guilt. “There are some issues to be resolved regarding that basis of plea,” said Mr Gurney.

A prosecutor, the court heard, was seeking time to consider Stefan’s position. “She has made significant admissions. The only issue in dispute is the seniority (of Stefan) within the organisation,” said Mr Gurney.

Judge Nicholas Barker adjourned the hearing until next Wednesday for the position to be clarified, and granted Stefan, of Woodrouffe Terrace, Carlisle, bail in the meantime.

Conditions previously imposed on her bail were that she must surrender her passport; not leave the UK; she cannot purchase travel tickets that would allow any person to enter or exit the UK; and must reside at her current address.

As he adjourned the case, Judge Barker told Stefan: “You must be back at court next Wednesday, March 15.

"The court will then decide whether there needs to be a further hearing about the basis of plea or whether the case will be listed for a sentence hearing on a future date.

“The fact that you have entered your pleas of guilty today will mean that you receive credit for your pleas of guilty.”

This will result in a discount of her eventual sentence.