Two teenage boys from Somerset have appeared at Taunton Magistrates' Court charged with multiple counts of rape involving victims under the age of 16. The court hearing took place on Wednesday, 2 September.
Due to their ages, the identities of the boys cannot be legally disclosed. Both individuals, who self-identify as white British, face serious allegations.
According to Avon and Somerset Police, the 17-year-old defendant faces three counts of rape of a girl aged under 16, one count of non-fatal strangulation, and one count of assault causing actual bodily harm. The 16-year-old is charged with three counts of rape of a girl under 16, one count of rape of a woman aged 16 or over, one count of non-fatal strangulation, and one count of assault causing actual bodily harm.
READ MORE: Musgrove Park maternity unit improves rating but challenges remain
READ MORE: Four young men charged in connection with importing banned weapons
The alleged offences reportedly took place at addresses across North Somerset, western Somerset, and Cornwall. They relate to a vulnerable young woman and two teenage girls under the age of 16.
Following their initial court appearance, the two boys have been remanded into youth detention. They are due to face a further hearing at Taunton Crown Court, which will be held at North Somerset Courthouse on Friday, 25 September.
An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson urged victims and survivors to seek support from dedicated services. They stated: “Visit the dedicated pages of our website for links to support services and information for child and adult victim-survivors of sexual offences. You can seek support, including healthcare, from these services and will not need to speak with the police unless you choose to do so.”