Key Facts

• Two girls, aged 15 and 14, were raped in separate incidents by two 14-year-old boys; a 13-year-old boy was also convicted for the second incident.
• The boys were given youth rehabilitation orders by Judge Nicholas Rowland, who wanted to avoid sending very young offenders to prison.
• All three boys were found guilty after a trial at Southampton Crown Court but cannot be named due to their age.
• Attorney General Lord Hermer referred the case to the Court of Appeal, questioning whether the sentences were too lenient.
• The Sentencing Council advises courts to prioritize rehabilitation for children and use custody only as a last option.
• The victims expressed ongoing fear and the lifelong impact of the attacks.
• Some political figures criticized the sentences as too lenient and called for stricter punishment in such cases.
• The Attorney General reviewed victim statements and praised the girls for their bravery in going through trial and campaigning for justice.