Ensuring Justice Reflects the Seriousness of Child Abuse

The recent increase in the sentence imposed on a man who raped two young girls, is an important reminder of the role the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme can play in the criminal justice system.

Liam Ross was originally sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court to 12 years’ imprisonment for several serious sexual offences involving children. 

Following a referral by the Attorney General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, on 3rd September 2026, the Court of Appeal reviewed Ross’ sentence and increased it to 15 years’ imprisonment, alongside a one-year licence extension. 

The case demonstrates why the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme is important. Where a sentence is considered unduly lenient, the scheme provides a mechanism through which certain cases can be referred to the Court of Appeal for consideration. It means that, in appropriate circumstances, a sentence does not necessarily have to remain unchanged simply because it has already been imposed.

The Impact on Survivors

This is particularly significant for survivors of child abuse and their families. The effects of childhood sexual abuse can be devastating and can continue long after the abuse itself has ended. The recent announcement illustrates the lasting impact through the experience described by the mother of one of the victims, who continues to struggle with feelings of insecurity and serious mental health difficulties as a result of what she endured.

While increasing a sentence cannot undo the harm caused to a survivor, it can provide an important sense that the seriousness of the offending has been properly recognised. It can also reinforce the principle that sexual offences against children deserve sentences that accurately reflect their gravity.

For survivors, knowing that there is a process through which an inadequate sentence can be challenged can be significant. The scheme does not guarantee that every sentence will be increased, but it provides an important safeguard where the legal threshold for intervention is met.

The increase in Ross’ sentence is therefore a positive development. It demonstrates that the justice system has mechanisms capable of correcting sentences where they do not sufficiently reflect the seriousness of child sexual abuse and the devastating impact it can have on survivors.