The Crown Prosecution Service has referred the sentences passed for three teenage boys who were found guilty of rape as unduly lenient sentences.

The teenagers, aged 13, 14 and 14 at the time of the offences, were convicted of raping and filming two young victims in separate incidents less than two months apart.

Although prosecutors have no direct role in deciding a sentence, they can refer a case to the Attorney General’s Office. The Attorney has now asked the Court of Appeal to review the sentences.

The ULS scheme allows the Court of Appeal to consider whether sentences passed in the most serious cases are appropriate. The court decides this following consideration of the particular facts and circumstances of each case referred.

Our work supporting victims does not stop when a trial ends, and we recognise the bravery shown by both victims of these appalling crimes.

Siobhan Blake, National CPS Lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO), said:

“It is deeply distressing to see any instance of sexual offending, especially when it involves young victims and offenders. Our prosecutors tell us they are seeing youth-on-youth cases with some involving more serious and more violent behaviour.  

“It is vital young people are educated and informed about consent and that harmful and misogynistic attitudes are tackled as early as possible to prevent these crimes. Everyone has a part to play.

“Young people must understand that sexual activity without consent is a serious criminal offence that can lead to them being prosecuted.”