Hampshire: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described as ‘appalling’ the decision to spare three teenage boys custodial sentences after they were convicted over the rape of two girls in Hampshire, as pressure mounts for an urgent legal review.
The case, heard at Southampton Crown Court, involved two girls aged 15 and 14 who were attacked in separate incidents in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, between November 2024 and January 2025. Two boys, both aged 14 at the time, were convicted of rape, while another boy, then aged 13, was convicted for his involvement in the second assault.
Despite the seriousness of the crimes, Judge Nicholas Rowland sentenced the boys to Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) instead of custodial detention. The judge said he wanted to avoid criminalising these children unnecessarily.
The ruling has sparked outrage across the UK, with politicians from multiple parties, campaigners, and the victims’ families demanding tougher punishment.
Starmer backs review of sentences
Responding publicly, Starmer praised the victims for their bravery and supported the decision by law officers to review the sentencing. Starmer remarked that, “The girls at the heart of this case have shown extraordinary bravery and strength in heinous circumstances. This is an appalling case and it is right that law officers are urgently reviewing the sentences.”
The Attorney General’s Office now has 28 days to determine whether the case should be referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme. Cabinet minister Darren Jones said the review is expected to move quickly, stressing that the victims and their families deserve justice.
Details of the sentences
One of the convicted boys, now aged 15, received a three-year Youth Rehabilitation Order with 180 days of intensive supervision for the rape of both girls and indecent image offences. Another 15-year-old was handed the same sentence for multiple rape convictions and indecent image charges.
The youngest defendant, now 14, received an 18-month YRO after being convicted of encouraging one of the rapes during the January 2025 attack. Under UK law, offenders under 18 serve custodial terms in secure youth detention facilities rather than adult prisons.
Political backlash intensifies
The case has triggered widespread criticism from across the political spectrum. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she was sickened by the outcome, arguing that the punishment was no punishment at all.
Shadow minister for women Mims Davies said the case highlighted growing concerns among women and girls over justice and safety. Reform UK MP Robert Jenrick argued that judges should be held accountable when serious sentencing errors occur.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat spokesperson Ben Maguire called the case utterly horrific and urged authorities to act swiftly and decisively.
Children’s commissioner expresses concern
Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, said she was deeply concerned by the case and confirmed her office would reach out to support the victims’ families. The case continues to draw intense national attention as campaigners and politicians await the outcome of the legal review into the controversial sentences.
POPULAR | 4 killed as Russia launches massive missile and drone barrage on Kyiv
