Trial set for 2 in Youngstown slave labor investigation

2/18/2014

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Two people are headed to trial in northeast Ohio on charges of enslaving a mentally disabled woman for two years with her child.

The trial of 27-year-old Jordie Callahan and 32-year-old Jessica Hunt was scheduled to begin today in Youngstown federal court. Jury selection was delayed by at least two hours because of winter weather causing travel problems.

Two other defendants pleaded guilty and face sentencing in March.

Authorities say the victim was treated with cruelty and was forced to do housework under the threat to her and her child from a python or pit bulls. The defendants allegedly looted her bank account and public assistance.

The case out of Ashland was broken when the woman apparently shoplifted a candy bar to draw attention to herself and appeal for help.