Rape survivor Gisèle Pelicot expressed profound dismay as three teenage boys found guilty of raping two young girls in the UK were not sentenced to jail time.
Two separate incidents of rape occurred in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, with the first assault on November 26, 2024, and the second on January 17, 2025. During the initial attack, a 15-year-old girl was raped by two 14-year-old boys, while in the second incident, two boys, also aged 14, raped a 14-year-old girl while one of them filmed the assault and encouraged the act.
The trio received youth rehabilitation orders (YRO) instead of being incarcerated, with the older pair subjected to intensive supervision and surveillance (ISS).
Pelicot, known for her high-profile rape case in France, expressed horror that these teenagers were granted freedom while their victims continued to endure immense suffering. She emphasized the importance of justice in acknowledging victims’ pain and ensuring perpetrators face consequences.
In response to the decision, one of the victims expressed shock and disappointment, questioning the purpose of her painful court experience if the offenders did not face appropriate punishment. Pelicot commended the young woman’s courage and decision to seek justice despite the challenges.
If the teenage boys had been sentenced to prison, they would have been placed in secure centers for children due to their age under 18 in the UK.
The sentencing was met with criticism, with Keir Starmer describing it as “appalling.” Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones offered support to the victims’ families considering appealing the perceived leniency of the sentences.
During the sentencing at Southampton Crown Court, Judge Nicholas Rowland emphasized the need to prevent future serious offenses by the defendants while also recognizing their young age and the importance of rehabilitation.
The attorney general’s office confirmed receipt of several requests to review the sentences under the Unduly Lenient Scheme, with a 28-day period to determine if the cases should be referred to the Court of Appeal.
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