A man is behind bars after admitting that he sexually abused two children in Dundee over a four-year period.
James Hocking, 35, pleaded guilty at Dundee Sheriff Court to three charges of lewd and libidinous practices and sexual assault against the children.
The offences happened on dates between 2009 and 2013 at addresses in the city.
Hocking, a prisoner at Perth, also admitted failing to appear for a court hearing on July 7.
The court heard that Hocking abused both the children over a similar time period.
In July 2014, one of the youngsters disclosed to their mother that they had been touched by Hocking on “numerous occasions”.
Hocking touched the child inappropriately when he was alone with the youngster and while the child’s mum wasn’t present.
The child said the abuse occurred on several occasions over a three-year period and would only stop when he was disturbed by the entry buzzer to a property.
On one occasion, the child recalled waking up in a bed not remembering being taken there, before being abused by Hocking.
He was traced by police in March 2015 and the court heard how he gave a “no comment” interview to officers.
He was then released without charge due to insufficient evidence. However, in November 2015, the second child became upset at seeing Hocking in the street.
The child’s mother noticed a change in the youngster’s attitude and that the child was fearful of going outside.
Police were contacted about further allegations relating to Hocking but the child could not recall specific dates related to the claims.
Hocking later admitted molesting the child and occasionally making the child take their clothes off and sit on him.
The abuse is said to have lasted over a period of two-and-a-half years.
Sheriff Alistair Carmichael deferred sentence on Hocking until October 31 to gather social work reports.
He was remanded in custody and placed on the sex offenders register meantime.
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