The jury in the trial of three boys accused of raping a 13-year-old girl in Rochdale has heard closing speeches. The boys, now aged 15, 16, and 14, were 12, 13, and 14 at the time of the alleged attack in February 2024 near Newbold tram stop.
Prosecutor Kim Whittlestone told the court that “teen flirting does not equate to consent to a foursome in the bushes.” She argued that the victim did not reciprocate the boys’ advances and that the incident was a “gang rape.” Part of the attack was filmed on a mobile phone and circulated.
Defence barristers challenged the victim’s credibility. Rachel Shenton, representing the now 16-year-old, said the girl was “untruthful” and “inconsistent,” asking why she did not scream or shout. Peter Gilmour, for the now 15-year-old, reminded the jury that the defendants are children.
The third boy, now 14, has been deemed unfit to stand trial. All three deny the charges. The trial at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court continues.
