This sex trafficking ring had been in operation for along time. It was known by the police and the city council (?) but was repeatedly covered up. Parents were threatened with arrest and prosecution if they were to force the issue. I believe young boys were also trafficked.
That was the original Rotherham case. Things have moved on. Bringing this case successfully to conviction through a series of trials is the result of a sustained and concerted effort by large numbers of police and prosecutors over a long period. Securing evidence from victims, especially child victims, which will stand up in court is the hardest part, but they're beginning to crack it. Anybody who thinks the issue is still not being taken seriously by the police, the courts, local authorities and others is badly mistaken.