Why were three teen rapists not given custodial sentences?

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Note: this episode contains frequent references to rape, sexual assault and physical assault. There's been public confusion and outrage over the sentences given to three teenage boys, who were convicted of rape. In November 2024 and January 2025, two girls, then aged 15 and 14, were attacked in separate incidents in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, by two 14-year-olds. Another boy, then 13, was also convicted for his involvement in the second rape. The teenage boys were given youth rehabilitation orders and walked out of court with 10 rape convictions between them. The Prime Minister says the case will be referred to the Court of Appeal. He described the case as distressing and said "there are…