A 15-year-old girl who was raped by three boys in Hampshire has spoken out, saying she feels she is being 'punished for something that wasn't my fault.' The attack occurred in January 2025, when she was threatened with a knife and raped by the three boys, who filmed the assault and shared it online.
Sentencing Controversy
The three boys involved avoided custodial sentences, with the judge stating he wished to 'avoid criminalising these children unnecessarily.' This decision sparked a national outcry, with many questioning the leniency of the sentences.
The victim, who was 14 at the time of the attack, is now suffering from flashbacks and struggling to study for her GCSE exams. She expressed her distress, stating that she feels punished for something that was not her fault.
Court of Appeal Referral
Following multiple complaints, the Attorney General, Lord Hermer, referred the sentences to the Court of Appeal under the unduly lenient sentence scheme. The victim's parents expressed deep disappointment in the justice system, saying they feel completely let down and that the judge handled the sentencing 'completely wrong.'
Victim's Statement
In a full statement, the victim said she is too terrified to leave her home. The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about how the justice system handles cases involving young offenders and serious sexual offences.
