Following the trial at Southampton Crown Court, Judge Nicholas Rowland stated that two out of three teenage boys involved in the rape of two girls in Fordingbridge were considered a significant risk to young females. He also noted that their actions warranted a custodial sentence.
The trio, who were all spared imprisonment, are now facing a review at the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentences (ULS) scheme. Prosecutors highlighted that the assaults, which occurred in 2024 and 2025, were recorded on phones in a brazen manner, showing the boys laughing and goading each other.
Public outcry prompted Attorney General Lord Hermer to address what he called an epidemic of violence against women and girls, leading to the case being reviewed after a statement from Sir Keir Starmer. The full sentencing remarks by Judge Rowland for the two 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old have been made public.
In the sentencing, the first 15-year-old received a three-year youth rehabilitation order (YRO) with 180 days of intensive supervision and surveillance (ISS) for each rape incident involving the 14 and 15-year-old victims, along with charges for indecent images. The second 15-year-old was handed a similar sentence for multiple rape charges and indecent image offenses related to the recordings.
The 14-year-old defendant, who was 13 at the time of the crimes, was given an 18-month YRO for his involvement in the second incident, which included encouraging the second defendant and an indecent images offense.
Judge Rowland emphasized that while the teenage boys were deemed a medium risk for reoffending, they posed a high risk of causing serious harm to young females. He took into account their backgrounds, noting that the first defendant had ADHD and anxiety issues, while the second had significant neurodevelopmental challenges and cognitive impairments.
Despite the serious nature of the crimes, Judge Rowland opted not to impose immediate custody, citing guidelines that prioritize youth rehabilitation and welfare. He highlighted the importance of avoiding unnecessary criminalization of children, encouraging responsibility for actions, and facilitating their reintegration into society.
The judge concluded that a YRO for each defendant would offer the best chance for rehabilitation and reducing the risk of future offenses. He stressed the need for children to learn from their mistakes and be given the opportunity to address their behavior positively.