Traveller family are jailed over slave ring

THE HEAD of a traveller family who helped to run a modern-day slavery ring has been jailed for 10 years and nine months.

Martin Rooney, 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 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 custodial sentences ranging from 15 to six years, while two received suspended sentences.

Six people were initially arrested in September 2014 when seven warrants were executed in Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and London as part of inquiries into allegations of modern slavery.

All the victims of the offences were described as extremely vulnerable, including several who had learning disabilities and mental health issues, and were estranged from their families.

Chief Superintendent Chris Davison, head of crime for Lincolnshire Police, said: “The severity of these crimes is underlined by the sentences imposed by the judge. The victims will never get the years back.”