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A 35-YEAR-OLD man who let his home become a haven for young teenage boys' on drink and drugs before sexually abusing them has been caged for a year.

John Gibbs, from Woodland Walk in Runcorn, invited boys aged between 13 and 16, to his mum's house in June and July last year, while she was not at home.

Warrington Crown Court heard yesterday how Gibbs abused the teens, but warned them not to tell anybody because he had a spear in the house he got from Africa'.

Judge Thomas Teague said: "You touched each of the three boys named in these charges in the genital area over their clothing.

"No doubt they were attracted by the DJ equipment you allowed them to play.

"While they were there with your knowledge they smoked cannabis and drank alcohol."

Simon Mills, prosecuting, said Gibbs did not supply the drink and drugs, but he let one of the boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons, drink enough to make him feel sick'.

On one occasion he told a boy to go lie down on his bed and then touched his genitals and buttocks. The boy said he was scared because he knew Gibbs owned knives.

Gibbs left the area early this year but was arrested on January 29 in Lancashire.

Daniel Dennis, defending, said Gibbs had left for Altrincham not to avoid the police but after threats from neighbours.

He said: "It has had a devastating effect upon himself and his family.

"They have been subjected to taunts and comments by the neighbours and his mother has had to leave the address."

Judge Teague said it was clear Gibbs had a serious problem with drink and drugs that dated back to 2001 and the breakdown of his relationship with his wife.

Gibbs admitted three counts of sexual assault and was sentenced to 12 months on each charge to run concurrently.

He has been banned from working with children and will remain on the Sex Offender's Register for 10 years.

8:14am Thursday 8th May 2008

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