Woman sentenced for operating Cambridge brothel
Controlled prostitution for financial gain
A woman has been sentenced for controlling prostitution activities in Cambridge for her own financial benefit.
Sio Cheok, aged 58, was investigated by Cambridgeshire Constabulary after reports of anti-social behaviour and frequent visitors to a property on Histon Road in 2025.
On 20th May 2025, officers visited the address and found Cheok and a suspected sex worker inside, along with a massage bed and sex-related paraphernalia including condoms and lubricants.
Two mobile phones were seized, revealing extensive evidence of Cheok scheduling appointments and communicating with clients and workers.
Cheok was initially released on bail but breached her conditions, as revealed by further enquiries and welfare checks in December.
Financial investigation uncovered more than £55,000 deposited into her bank accounts through cash and third-party payments over a 12-month period.
At Peterborough Crown Court on Friday, 3rd July, Cheok, of Chesterton Road, received a 16-month prison sentence, suspended for two years after pleading guilty to controlling prostitution for gain between June 2024 and December 2025.
She is also required to complete 120 hours of unpaid work.
Detective Constable Steph Barnes-Dunlop emphasized Cheok's exploitation of vulnerable women for financial gain, commending the comprehensive investigation that led to her sentencing.
This case underlines the commitment of law enforcement to work alongside partner agencies to safeguard those at risk of exploitation and prevent such activities.
Officers are now pursuing actions under the Proceeds of Crime Act to prevent Cheok from benefiting financially from her crimes.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary encourages anyone experiencing exploitation to contact them or Crimestoppers for assistance.