Slavery trial hears accused 'got on perfect' with his 'victim'
Last updated 30th Jan 2018
A grandfather charged with keeping a man “in slavery” got on “perfect” with the alleged victim, it was claimed.
Robert McPhee is accused of holding Graeme Lamb against his will at Curryside Piggery in Shotts, Lanarkshire.
The allegation includes claims he forced Mr Lamb to “carry out work for little or no pay”.
McPhee (65) is on trial along with James McPhee (45) and John Miller (38).
The three now face more than 20 charges between them at the High Court in Glasgow.
The accusations – which span between 1992 and 2016 – include slavery and violence.
They deny all the charges.
Steven McPhee (37) who had also been on trial meantime pled guilty to an assault charge.
He will be sentenced at a later date.
Prosecutor Kath Harper earlier closed the Crown case as a number of charges were also withdrawn.
Robert McPhee's teenage grandson was later called as a defence witness on his behalf.
Robert McPhee jnr was quizzed about a number of individuals the McPhee family knew including Mr Lamb.
The 19 year-old recalled he had previously joined Mr Lamb in leafleting for his grandfather.
McPhee's QC Ian Duguid asked: “Ever see anything untoward with Graeme Lamb?”
The witness: “No.”
The advocate also asked: “How did he get on with your grand-dad?”
The teenager: “Fine, perfect.”
Prosecutor Miss Harper also questioned the witness and he agreed Mr Lamb was a “nice man”.
The trial, before Lady Stacey, continues.