Three teenagers who were convicted of raping two girls and received non-custodial sentences will have their cases reviewed by the Court of Appeal in July. The incidents took place in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, where two 15-year-olds were spared jail by a judge at Southampton Crown Court to prevent unnecessary criminalization of the youths.
A third teenager, aged 14, was also found guilty in connection to the second assault and an indecent images offense. The decision to refer the case to the Court of Appeal was made by Sir Keir Starmer under the unduly lenient scheme. The upcoming two-day hearing on July 1 will see senior judges reviewing the sentences.
Attorney General Lord Hermer highlighted the prevalence of violence against women and girls in the country and praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward. The first 15-year-old received a three-year youth rehabilitation order (YRO) with intensive supervision for each rape and indecent image charges. The second 15-year-old faced similar charges for multiple rapes and indecent image offenses.
The third boy, who was 13 at the time of the crime, was given an 18-month YRO for his involvement in the incidents. Despite the judge recognizing that the offenses crossed the custody threshold, he emphasized that custody should be a last resort for youth offenders to prevent reoffending and prioritize their welfare.
Judge Rowland took into account the emotional and developmental ages of the teenagers when considering custody as an option. He noted the backgrounds and risk assessments of the offenders, citing ADHD, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental impairments as factors influencing their behaviors. The judge’s decision to avoid immediate custody was influenced by these considerations.
