A HEYSHAM boy has been cleared of accusations that he raped a girl and carried out attacks on two others.
The 15-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, wept as the unanimous verdicts were returned today by a Preston Crown Court jury.
He was acquitted of one charge of rape and two of attempted rape, as well as two alternative allegations of indecent assault.
It has been claimed that while aged 14 he raped a girl of the same age in bushes as they sheltered from rain.
But giving evidence to the court, the boy alleged that she had consented to sex and instigated what took place.
He further denied claims that he tried to rape two other girls, stating he had never touched them inappropriately.
After the verdicts were returned, he was discharged by Judge Peter Openshaw.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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