Gisèle Pelicot 'deeply shocked' by decision not to jail boys in rape case
Summary
Three teenage boys in Hampshire were given youth rehabilitation orders, not prison sentences, after being convicted of raping two girls aged 14 and 15. The decision has sparked shock and calls for review by the attorney general, with survivors and advocates emphasizing the need for justice and protection against online sharing of abuse.Key Facts
- Two girls, aged 14 and 15, were raped in Fordingbridge in November 2024 and January 2025 by two 14-year-old boys; a 13-year-old was also convicted for involvement.
- The judge gave youth rehabilitation orders instead of prison, aiming to avoid "criminalising" very young offenders.
- The attorney general is reviewing the sentences and has 28 days to decide if the case should go to the Court of Appeal.
- The victims and advocates, including French survivor Gisèle Pelicot, expressed shock and called for stronger justice measures.
- The boys shared videos of the assaults on social media, raising concerns about online safety.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the incident as "appalling" and praised the victims' bravery.
- One victim called the sentences a "slap on the wrist" and wants the boys to be jailed.
- The case highlights issues around youth crime, victim protection, and social media’s role in abuse cases.
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