In Fordingbridge, England, two teenage boys who were convicted of raping teen girls have their sentences revised after the case is considered by the Court of Appeal. Multiple reports say the earlier sentencing was found to be unduly lenient, including an initial outcome that did not impose a custodial period.
According to the BBC and other outlets, the Court of Appeal overrules the original decision and imposes custodial sentences. The New York Times and ITV News report that the revised sentence is four years’ detention for each of the boys. The Independent notes that public outcry followed the original outcome and that the matter was referred to the Court of Appeal.
The BBC and other coverage also report that an Attorney General intervention forms part of the background to the appeal. Overall, sources agree that the appeal court concludes the original judge did not impose detention despite the seriousness of the offences, and the sentences are replaced with custodial terms.
