Convicted of forced labour

Camden: A New Jersey woman has been convicted of forcing a Sri Lankan national to work for her for nine years without pay — and even marry her so she could stay in the country.

A federal jury yesterday convicted Alia Imad Faleh Al Hunaity of forced labour, harbouring an alien for financial gain and forced marriage. Forced labour carries a maximum 20year prison sentence.

Prosecutors said Al Hunaity brought the woman to the United States in 2009 and forced her to overstay her visa.

They say Al Hunaity forced the woman to clean her house and care for her children.

They also presented evidence Al Hunaity forced the victim to marry her so the victim could obtain legal residence. Sentencing will be in September. — AP