- The government is reviewing the "lenient" sentences given to three boys who avoided custodial sentences for their involvement in the rape of two girls in Fordingbridge, Hampshire.
- Former Home Office minister Jess Phillips and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the sentences, calling them "unduly lenient" and stating they sent a "bad message" and offered "no punishment at all".
- The three boys, aged 14 and 15, received Youth Rehabilitation Orders, with the older two also subject to Intensive Supervision and Surveillance, despite the court hearing they filmed the incidents.
- The judge explained his decision focused on rehabilitation, avoiding unnecessary criminalisation, and acknowledging peer pressure, while praising the victims' bravery.
- The Attorney General's office has received multiple requests to review the case under the Unduly Lenient Scheme, following public shock and concern over the outcome.
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