Four Neo-Nazis Jailed in Hungary for Murder Spree That Targeted Roma Minority

Three given life without parole, fourth given 13 years without parole

(Reuters)—A Hungarian court jailed four neo-Nazis on Tuesday for killing Roma families in a spree of racist violence in 2008 and 2009 that shocked the country and led to accusations that police had failed to protect an historically persecuted minority.

The gang killed six Roma and wounded several others in carefully planned attacks across the country over 13 months, creating a climate of fear for members of Hungary's largest ethnic minority. Roma, who make up about 7 percent of the population of 10 million, face widespread discrimination and often live in dire poverty.

Three men were jailed for life without parole and a fourth for 13 years, also without parole. The ruling can be appealed.