Pensioner jailed for decades-old abuse of boys

A pensioner who groomed and sexually abused five boys more than two decades ago has been jailed for 19 years.

Alan Rutter, 78, would show his victims pornography and get them drunk before assaulting them, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

He was found guilty of 11 counts including child abduction, sexual activity with a child, indecent assault and buggery, although some of the offences would today be classed as rape.

Judge Gavin Doig said there was "no doubt" Rutters' "deviant, calculated and pernicious" actions had damaged the lives of his victims.

The judge said Rutter got boys aged between eight and 17 to visit his home where he would put on pornographic films and perform sex acts while encouraging his victims to do the same.

He also plied them with alcohol and cigarettes, the court heard, and encouraged them to play truant to visit him, which was the reason he was prosecuted for child abduction.

Judge Doig said it was an "ongoing and calculated process of grooming" driven by Rutter's "sexual interest" in the boys.

The judge said Rutter knew some of the youths came from "chaotic family circumstances" which made them "more vulnerable" to the offender's "corrupting and pernicious influence".

In statements read to the court, the victims said they felt disgusted, ashamed and embarrassed, with several saying they had had substance addiction problems linked to the trauma inflicted upon them by Rutter.

One said the abuse "totally messed up" his childhood, while another said the guilty verdict meant he could now "move on" with his life.

Judge Doig praised their courage in coming forward and reporting the crimes, which occurred in the 1990s.

The judge said he took into account Rutter's age and ill health when jailing him.

Rutter, whose address was given as a retirement home in Easington, County Durham, must also sign the sex offender's register for life.

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