The Court of Appeal is set to review the sentencing of two 15-year-old boys who were spared jail after being convicted of raping two girls in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. The case has sparked widespread outrage, prompting the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, to announce that the sentences are being referred under the unduly lenient scheme.
Prime Minister Expresses Distress
Sir Keir Starmer expressed his distress over the case, praising the victims for their courage and acknowledging the public's concern. The Prime Minister stated that the sentences given by the trial judge, who said he wanted to avoid criminalising the children unnecessarily, were perceived as too lenient.
Attorney General's Referral
The Attorney General has exercised the power to refer the case to the Court of Appeal. The court will now examine whether the non-custodial sentences were unduly lenient and whether they should be increased. The review comes after a significant public outcry and media attention.
The case has reignited debates about how the justice system handles serious crimes committed by minors. The victims' families have welcomed the review, hoping for a more proportionate outcome.
