Chapman, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 175 (05 February 2026)

Chapman, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 175 (05 February 2026)

The original sentence was unduly lenient as it failed to reflect the seriousness and aggravating features of the offences, particularly grooming and repeated sexual activity with a child. The reduction for immaturity was excessive. The appropriate sentence, after considering aggravating factors, totality, immaturity, and guilty plea, was 6 years and 8 months' custody for rape, with other sentences to remain concurrent.

Citation
[2026] EWCA Crim 175
Parties
Prosecution: Rex; Offender/respondent: Scott Chapman
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
05 February 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal Reference by Attorney General Under S.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988 / Appeal Against Sentence; Review of Sentence for Undue Leniency
Outcome
Appeal allowed; sentence increased
Legal Topics
Sentencing, Sexual Offences, Unduly Lenient Sentences, Appeals
Criminal Law Sentencing Sexual Offences Unduly Lenient Sentences Appeals

Case Brief

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Parties

Rex

Prosecution

Scott Chapman

Offender/respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal Reference by Attorney General Under S.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988 / Appeal Against Sentence; Review of Sentence for Undue Leniency

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the sentence imposed for rape and related sexual offences was unduly lenient
  2. 2 Proper application of sentencing guidelines for rape and sexual activity with a child
  3. 3 Appropriate reduction for immaturity and guilty plea

Ratio Decidendi

The original sentence was unduly lenient as it failed to reflect the seriousness and aggravating features of the offences, particularly grooming and repeated sexual activity with a child. The reduction for immaturity was excessive. The appropriate sentence, after considering aggravating factors, totality, immaturity, and guilty plea, was 6 years and 8 months' custody for rape, with other sentences to remain concurrent.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed; sentence increased

Orders

  • Sentence of 4 years and 3 months' imprisonment for rape quashed and substituted with 6 years and 8 months' custody on count 1; other sentences to remain concurrent; statutory surcharge order, sexual harm prevention order for 10 years, and forfeiture order for telephone remain in place.