Teenage Rapists Walk Free: Judge Cites Need to Avoid Criminalising Them
Three teenagers who raped two lone young girls in separate attacks have been spared jail, with a judge stating the need to avoid criminalising them unnecessarily. The incidents occurred in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, and involved victims aged 14 and 15 at the time. The court heard that the attacks were filmed and shared, causing lasting trauma.
First Attack: Snapchat Meeting Turns to Rape
The first victim, then 15, began communicating with one of the boys on Snapchat before meeting in person on November 26, 2024. After consensual acts, a second 15-year-old arrived, and the pair raped her while a third boy filmed. She described feeling 'cornered, trapped, petrified.' The video was later shared, leading to her being called a 'slag' and subjected to jokes.
Second Attack: Rape in a Field
The second victim, then 14, was raped in a field near Fordingbridge recreation ground on January 17, 2025. This attack was also filmed. Both victims were forced to relive the ordeals during the trial.
Sentences and Judge's Rationale
None of the three boys received jail time. The first 15-year-old received a three-year youth rehabilitation order (YRO) with 180 days of intensive supervision for raping both girls and two indecent image charges. He has ADHD and anxiety. The second 15-year-old received the same sentence for three rape charges and four indecent image counts; he has an IQ in the bottom 1% and ADHD. The 14-year-old received an 18-month YRO for two rape charges and indecent images; he has mild cognitive impairment.
Judge Nicholas Rowland said: 'I have to remember that you are not small adults. I should avoid criminalising these children unnecessarily and understand the effects of their behaviour and support their reintegration into society.' He noted peer pressure played a large role. The boys also received a three-month curfew and a 10-year restraining order.
Victims' Statements: Lives Ruined
The first victim read a poem in court, including the line: 'All I want to do is die, I no longer have fear for when that comes.' She said her mental health deteriorated, leading to isolation. The second victim's statement described nightmares, anxiety, and feeling 'ashamed, insecure, and uncomfortable in my own body.' She added: 'The person I was before the incident has completely gone.'
The judge told the girls: 'The sentence I am going to pass cannot possibly undo what happened to you. I hope when you look back on today’s date you will take some comfort from the fact you have shown that courage in coming along to court.'
