Story perspectives

Attorney General Calls Teen Sex Sentences Unduly Lenient

5/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Attorney General Lord Hermer referred the sentences to the Court of Appeal, deeming them unduly lenient.
Each boy received a £26 fine, a youth rehabilitation order and a 30-42-month term on the sex-offender register.
One received a restraining order; none were sentenced to custody.
Survivors, the counselling centre, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the Ministry of Justice condemned the penalties, warning they could deter reporting and merit custody.

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Story summary

Attorney General Lord Hermer referred the sentences to the Court of Appeal, deeming them unduly lenient.
Each boy received a £26 fine, a youth rehabilitation order and a 30-42-month term on the sex-offender register.
One received a restraining order; none were sentenced to custody.
Survivors, the counselling centre, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the Ministry of Justice condemned the penalties, warning they could deter reporting and merit custody.