Boys charged with murdering homeless man in Darlington
Two 15-year-old boys have been charged with murdering a homeless man who was found dead in a churchyard.
The body of George Akers, 59, was found in the grounds of St Cuthbert's Church, Darlington, on 12 June. A post-mortem examination showed he had multiple internal injuries.
The two boys, from Darlington, were arrested on Saturday and later charged with his murder, Durham Police said.
They will appear before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Police have described Mr Akers as a vulnerable man, known and liked by many people in the town, who often gave him cigarettes, sweets or cash.
He had not been in regular work for about 15 years and had spent time at various addresses before living on the streets.