Hut ‘slave’ silent over his ordeal
A SUSPECTED slavery victim allegedly kept in a freezing shed for 40 years has barely spoken since being freed.
Police and officials swooped on a travellers’ site near Carlisle, Cumbria, in October after a tip-off.
They found a 58-year-old with learning difficulties next to a garden chair, soiled bedding and rusty electric heater.
The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority say the man is still in such shock he has barely spoken a word.
Investigating officer Martin Plimmer said: “The potential victim is still receiving specialist care.
“When we found him he was like a rabbit in headlights and very confused.”
The property owner, a frail 79- year- old, was arrested but later released.
Relatives claim he offered the “victim” a place in his house but the man preferred the shed.