A woman with ten children who compelled another woman to serve as a house slave for over 25 years deceitfully misled inquiries about the woman’s location while she was essentially held captive in the household, according to a senior detective.
Amanda Wixon, aged 56, was sentenced to 13 years in prison for charges related to modern slavery, false imprisonment, and assault. The victim, now in her mid-40s, endured years of mistreatment after moving into Wixon’s unsanitary residence at the age of 16. Detective Superintendent Ian Fletcher stated that neighbors had previously seen the victim leave the property but later, Wixon falsely claimed she had relocated to Scotland with a boyfriend.
The victim, now referring to Wixon as “The Witch,” suffered physical abuse including being beaten with a broom handle, resulting in tooth loss and abscesses. She was subjected to other forms of cruelty such as having washing-up liquid forced down her throat and bleach splashed on her face, while also being forcibly shaved and deprived of adequate food.
Wixon was convicted of false imprisonment, compelling forced labor, and multiple assault charges. The victim, who entered the home in 1995, was rescued by authorities in 2021 following a tip-off. Detective Superintendent Fletcher described the extensive physical and psychological harm inflicted on the victim over the years as one of the most severe cases he had encountered in nearly three decades of policing.
The victim endured numerous assaults, including being pushed down stairs and having cleaning products forced into her mouth. Wixon dehumanized the victim, viewing her solely as a tool for her own benefit, distinct from how she treated her own children.
The conditions in the house were deplorable, with the victim’s room being particularly appalling. The victim was forced to live in squalor while also being expected to clean up after others. The detrimental impact on the victim’s life and mental well-being was immense due to the prolonged mistreatment.
Wixon displayed no remorse towards the victim, even after being convicted. The victim, who had her head forcibly shaved by Wixon, has since grown her hair long. Wixon’s lack of empathy and continued dehumanization of the victim were highlighted by Detective Superintendent Fletcher, who emphasized the severe psychological and physical toll the victim endured under Wixon’s control.