Teen’s Murder Sentence Slammed as Too Soft
A teenager originally handed just three years and two months for the killing of Olly Stephens in Reading has had their sentence bumped up to five years.
Judges Call Sentence “Unduly Lenient”
Three appeal judges ruled the initial sentence was far too light. They increased the custodial term after deciding Judge Heather Norton had made a clear error in sentencing.
Crime Details and Other Convictions
- The teenager, aged 13 at the time, pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
- Two 14-year-old boys were found guilty of murder at Reading Crown Court, receiving 13 and 12 years respectively.
- All three youths were sentenced in September to time in young offender institutions.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
Olly Stephens was lured to a field near his home following a social media dispute and was viciously ambushed.
Representing Solicitor General Alex Chalk, barrister Tom Little QC insisted the girl’s original sentence was shockingly lenient, leading to the successful appeal.
For legal reasons, none of those convicted can be named.
