In a recent court case in Fordingbridge, two out of the three teenage boys involved in the rape of two girls were considered a significant risk to young females, according to the presiding judge. Judge Nicholas Rowland determined that their actions warranted imprisonment during the trial held at Southampton Crown Court.
Despite being spared jail time, the three teenagers are now facing a review by the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentences (ULS) scheme due to the severity of the assaults, which occurred in 2024 and 2025. The incidents were recorded on phones, with the boys seen laughing and goading each other.
Following public outcry, Attorney General Lord Hermer expressed concern about the prevalence of violence against women and girls in the country. The case, described as distressing by Sir Keir Starmer, prompted a review. The full sentencing remarks by Judge Rowland for the two 15-year-olds and one 14-year-old have been made public.
The first 15-year-old received a three-year youth rehabilitation order (YRO) with 180 days of intensive supervision and surveillance (ISS) for raping two girls, aged 14 and 15, and possessing indecent images. The second 15-year-old was given the same sentence for similar charges, including filming the incidents.
The third boy, aged 14 at the time, was handed an 18-month YRO for his involvement in the second incident. Despite being deemed a moderate risk of reoffending, the judge considered their personal circumstances, such as ADHD diagnoses and intellectual impairments, in his sentencing decision.
Judge Rowland emphasized the importance of rehabilitation for the teenagers, citing their young age, emotional immaturity, and potential for change. He opted for YROs as a means to facilitate their reintegration into society and reduce the risk of further offending.