STORY
In a decisive move to address unduly lenient sentences, the Court of Appeal has significantly increased the prison terms for two convicted rapists after referrals by Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP.
Paul Watson’s Sentence Upgraded to Life Imprisonment
Paul Watson, 45, from Chorley, was originally sentenced to 17 years for coercing and controlling a woman and committing multiple rapes over a four-month period between January and April 2024. The victim testified that she submitted to Watson due to fear for her safety. On 3 April 2025, following the Solicitor General’s referral under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme, the Court of Appeal quashed the initial sentence and imposed life imprisonment.
Anthony McNamara’s Sentence Extended to 23 Years
In a separate case, Anthony McNamara, 46, from County Durham, groomed and repeatedly raped a young person over several years, beginning when the victim was 12. After his arrest in May 2024, McNamara breached bail conditions by continuing contact with the victim. Initially sentenced to 13 years, his term was increased on 3 April 2025 to a total of 23 years, comprising an 18-year custodial term and a 5-year extended license.
Official Statement
Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP expressed her revulsion at the crimes, stating:
“I am sickened to read about these rapists’ crimes, who both repeatedly preyed on their victims and inflicted terror upon them. I am glad that the court has rightly decided to increase both of these sentences, and my thoughts today are with the victims who suffered unimaginable abuse.”