Raped a woman on a footbridge.

Man Who Raped Woman on Footbridge Could Face Increased Sentence

John Horne, 39, was sentenced to nine years in prison for raping a 22-year-old woman on a footbridge near Fareham Train Station in Hampshire in March. The case has been referred to the Attorney General's office under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme, which could lead to an increase in his sentence.

The Attorney General's office will review the case and may refer it to the Court of Appeal, which has the authority to increase sentences. Horne admitted charges of rape and assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Portsmouth Crown Court in May. The court described the attack as "prolonged" and deemed Horne a dangerous offender, meaning he will serve at least two-thirds of his sentence behind bars.

The victim, in a statement read to the court, expressed the devastating impact the attack had on her life. She described herself as a "smiley" person before the assault, but now suffers from daily anxiety and fears she may "never be my normal self again."

Judge Richard Shepherd, during sentencing, told Horne he had "terrorised" his victim and stolen from her the opportunity to experience a "carefree and safe young adulthood."

A spokesperson from the Attorney General's Office confirmed they have received a request to review Horne's sentence under the ULS scheme, which addresses complaints about sentences deemed unreasonably low. The Law Officers have 28 days from the sentencing date to assess the case and reach a decision.