Burlington Couple Convicted of Forced Labor and Human Trafficking

A Burlington County couple has been convicted of forcing two victims to perform domestic labor and childcare in their home, as well as harboring them in the United States and confiscating their passports. Bolaji Bolarinwa, 50, and Isiaka Bolarinwa, 67, were found guilty of multiple federal crimes related to their coercive scheme.

The couple, originally from Nigeria but living in New Jersey as U.S. citizens, recruited two victims to come to the United States and then coerced them into performing domestic labor and childcare services for their children. The victims were subjected to physical harm, threats of physical harm, isolation, constant surveillance, and psychological abuse. The defendants engaged in this venture knowing that both victims were out of lawful status while working in their home.

Bolaji Bolarinwa was found guilty of two counts of forced labor, one count of alien harboring for financial gain, and two counts of document servitude. Isiaka Bolarinwa was convicted of two counts of forced labor and one count of alien harboring for financial gain. The defendants were each acquitted of a second count of alien harboring for financial gain.

“These defendants engaged in an egregious bait-and-switch, luring the victims with false promises of a life and an education in the United States, and instead subjected them to grueling hours, physical abuse and psychological abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. “Forced labor and human trafficking are abhorrent crimes that have no place in our society.”

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division added, “The defendants exploited the victims’ trust and then inflicted physical and mental abuse against them, all so they could keep the victims working for their profit. Human trafficking is a heinous crime, and this verdict should send the very clear message that the Justice Department will investigate and vigorously prosecute these cases to hold human traffickers accountable and bring justice to their victims.”

FBI Newark Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy said, “The victims in this investigation suffered in unimaginable ways at the hands of their captors, enduring years of physical and mental abuse. Human trafficking often takes on many different forms and can hide in plain sight. I want to commend the agents and victim specialists who worked on this case, alongside our partners at the US Attorney’s Office. We want everyone to know if you or anyone you know is a victim – you can come to us for help. We will bring your tormentors to justice.”