The Court of Appeal has increased the sentences of two 15-year-old boys who were originally spared custody for the rape of two girls in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. The teens have now been sentenced to four years' detention after the court ruled their original sentences were 'unduly lenient'.
Details of the Case
The two boys, both aged 15 at the time of the offences, were convicted of raping two girls in Fordingbridge. Initially, the sentencing judge had imposed a youth rehabilitation order, which allowed the boys to avoid immediate detention. However, the case was referred to the Court of Appeal under the unduly lenient sentence scheme, which allows the Attorney General to challenge sentences that are perceived as too soft.
Appeal Decision
On July 2, 2026, the Court of Appeal overturned the original sentences and imposed a four-year detention and training order for each boy. The court stated that the original sentences failed to reflect the seriousness of the offences and the harm caused to the victims. The Attorney General's office had argued that the initial sentences were not sufficient to deter others or to punish the offenders appropriately.
Impact
This ruling has been welcomed by victim support groups, who have called for tougher sentences for sexual offences against minors. The case highlights the ongoing debate about sentencing for young offenders in serious crimes. The victims' families have expressed relief that the sentences have been increased, but have also spoken about the lasting trauma caused by the attacks.
