PCC welcomes sentencing increase after Fordingbridge rapes

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Donna Jones, has welcomed the decision by the Court of Appeal to increase the sentences of two 15-year-old boys convicted of rape.

The case, which ended in non-custodial sentences for the boys in May, was a case that attracted widespread concern for the victims, their families and the wider community.

PCC Donna Jones said: “I welcome today’s decision to sentence the young men to four years’ detention. It represents an important acknowledgement of the seriousness and impact of these truly appalling crimes.

“From the very beginning, this case has been incredibly difficult, not only because of what happened, but because it exposed a painful tension within our justice system between how we sentence children.

“The reaction to the Youth Rehabilitation Orders first given as punishment was one of disbelief. It is clear the public’s expectation is that the most serious offences must be met with consequences that reflect their gravity.

“This outcome feels like a step towards restoring that balance.

“The girls can now start to rebuild their lives in the knowledge these young men are in detention. Life-long restraining orders should also offer them some comfort. Their futures and their road to recovery is, and always should be, central to criminal justice.

“Their powerful voices have helped ensure that this case received the attention and scrutiny it deserved.”

In response to the ruling, the family of ‘Jasmine’* said: “We are deeply grateful and relieved by the Court of Appeal Judges’ decision to increase the sentence.

“We believe this was the correct decision, and we are thankful that our voices were heard throughout this process. While nothing can undo our family’s anguish, this outcome brings a greater sense of justice and accountability.”

In response to the ruling, the family of ‘Sarah’* said: “We welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase the defendants’ sentences after the original sentences were referred as unduly lenient. We are relieved that the Court recognised the seriousness of these offences and imposed immediate custodial sentences.

“The original sentences were devastating for the family and left us feeling that the harm caused to our daughter had not been fully recognised. While no sentence can undo the trauma she has endured, today’s decision gives us a greater sense that justice has been served and that those responsible have been held properly accountable.

“We are immensely proud of our daughter’s courage and strength throughout this long and difficult process. We hope this outcome reassures other victims and survivors that their voices matter and that the justice system can correct decisions that do not adequately reflect the seriousness of these crimes.”

PCC Jones added: “This case must be a turning point.

“We need to challenge the attitudes and behaviours that underpin, downplay, and allow crimes against violence against women and girls.

“There is still more to do to rebuild and maintain public confidence, but this judgment shows that our Criminal Justice System can listen and respond.”

* The two girls’ names have been changed to protect their identities.