A PERVERT who groped three young boys while trusted to look after them has walked free from court.

George McCann, 34, indecently assaulted the youngsters, all under 11, by touching them intimately through their clothing.

Yesterday, he pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court to three charges of indecent assault and was sentenced to a three-year community rehabilitation order. He will be registered as a sex offender for five years.

Judge David Wood said: "It is better for the protection of children in the future if the probation service address your difficulties."

McCann had been living with his mother in Pallion, Sunderland. He is now living in a hostel