A TEACHER accused of groping a schoolboy was cleared by a jury after only 20 minutes yesterday.
David McPhearson-Smith, 41, was accused of indecently asaulting the youngster at his home.
Mr McPhearson-Smith admitted taking the 15-year-old to his house but "emphatically" denied touching the youngster.
After a three-day trial at Newcastle Crown Court, the teacher was found not guilty of two charges of indecent assault.
Mr McPhearson-Smith, of North Drive, Cleadon, South Tyneside, was close to tears as the jury delivered its verdict yesterday
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article