Modern slavery ring boss given 10 years

The head of a family who helped run a modern slavery ring has been jailed for 10 years and nine months.

Traveller Martin Rooney, aged 57, was among 11 gang members convicted of involvement in offences which included the keeping of one man in “truly shocking” conditions for decades.

A total of 11 defendants were convicted of offences following a series of linked trials relating to modern slavery and fraud at Nottingham Crown Court.

Rooney, of Sheffield Road, Saxilby, Lincolnshire, was jailed at the same court yesterday after being convicted of wounding and conspiracy to require a person to perform forced or compulsory labour.

Other members of the Rooney family were given sentences ranging from 15 to six years, while two received suspended sentences.

Martin Rooney senior