A couple in California has pleaded not guilty to charges of human trafficking and wage theft involving undocumented Filipino caregivers.
Prosecutors allege the victims were forced to work up to 24 hours a day at elder care facilities while being underpaid and assigned duties beyond their qualifications.
Authorities said the workers were paid as little as $130 to $150 per day without overtime, and had portions of their wages withheld under the promise of immigration assistance.
One victim reportedly had over $19,000 deducted from her salary, with only a fraction allegedly used for legal services.
The suspects remain out on bail while facing multiple charges, with prosecutors warning that more victims may be identified as the case progresses.
