‘Cruel’ couple who denied boys food and made them stand for hours are jailed
A "cruel" couple have been jailed after making two young boys stand for hours in "stress positions" and denying them food.
Darren Paisley, 39, was jailed for seven-and-a-half years, while Serena Sibson-Bartram, 34, was locked up for six-and-a-half years at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Friday.
They were both charged with four counts of child neglect and were found guilty following a trial at the same court.
The couple were arrested when one of the boy's schools raised concerns for their welfare in May 2018.
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A police and social services investigation found the pair had subjected the youngsters to a horrific campaign of abuse over four years.
This included forcing them to stand in stress positions, a known torture technique used in interrogations.
A third defendant Samantha Paisley, 35, pleaded guilty to child neglect and had her sentencing adjourned.
Detective Constable Vicky Fisher, of West Mercia Police, said: “This was a very distressing case for many people involved.
“Thankfully, by working with Telford and Wrekin Children’s Services, we were able to remove the boys from harm.
“The defendants showed no remorse for their tremendously cruel crimes against innocent young boys they were supposed to care and protect.
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“We hope these sentences provide closure and allows everyone involved, especially the two boys, to take their lives forward.
“We are incredibly grateful to the many witnesses who came forward to provide evidence and we commend their bravery in helping achieve justice for the boys.
“We are especially thankful for the school who raised their concerns and urge anyone who has any worries at all about the welfare of a child to please get in touch.”
