A New Jersey couple has been convicted of compelling a Filipina nurse into domestic servitude in a disturbing case that exposes modern slavery operating within American suburbs.
Sophia Malik, 62, and her husband Taufiq Malik, 70, face up to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of forced labour for exploiting a registered nurse they brought from the Philippines under false pretences.
The Promise That Became a Prison
The victim, identified only as "R.P." in court documents, arrived in the United States in 2020 believing she would work as a nurse for the elderly couple. Instead, she found herself trapped in a nightmare of domestic servitude at their Burlington County home.
"They systematically stripped away her freedom, confiscating her passport and immigration documents while forcing her to work gruelling hours with no proper compensation," revealed court testimony.
A Life of Control and Coercion
The prosecution detailed how the Maliks:
- Confiscated the nurse's passport and immigration documents
- Forced her to work up to 18 hours daily with minimal pay
- Threatened to harm her family in the Philippines if she resisted
- Subjected her to constant surveillance and restrictions
Assistant US Attorney Andrew B. Johns described how the couple "used threats and intimidation to maintain control over their victim, creating an environment of fear and dependency."
Justice Served After Brave Testimony
The case came to light when the nurse managed to contact authorities, leading to a federal investigation that uncovered the extent of her exploitation. Her courageous testimony proved crucial in securing convictions against both defendants.
"This verdict sends a clear message that modern slavery will not be tolerated in our communities," stated US Attorney Philip R. Sellinger following the trial.
The Maliks now await sentencing, facing substantial prison terms for their crimes. Meanwhile, the victim has begun rebuilding her life, though the psychological scars of her ordeal remain.
A Wider Pattern of Exploitation
This case highlights the ongoing problem of human trafficking affecting vulnerable migrant workers, particularly those in healthcare professions seeking better opportunities abroad.
Advocacy groups warn that similar exploitation often goes unreported, with victims fearing retaliation or deportation if they come forward.
