Georgina Vlahos, a Sydney woman left paralysed after her husband fired a gun into their home, will require lifelong specialised care, the court has heard.
The incident occurred on January 12, 2023, when Kamal El Jamal discharged an illegal firearm in the garage of their Condell Park home, with bullets piercing the ceiling and striking Vlahos as she slept in the bedroom above.
The shooting severed her spine and caused extensive internal injuries. Vlahos, who was told she would never walk again, later told the court she had forgiven El Jamal and requested he be permitted to live with her as her caregiver.
El Jamal pleaded guilty to recklessly causing actual bodily harm and using a pistol without authorisation. He was sentenced last week to seven years in prison with a non-parole period of four years and three months.
In a letter to the court, El Jamal expressed remorse and a desire to support Vlahos, writing: “I want to be the man she can count on… who helps her feel safe, loved and cherished always.”
Court documents revealed El Jamal was under the influence of drugs at the time and did not intend to harm anyone. However, he delayed calling for help, later fled the scene, and attempted to dispose of evidence.
The illegal weapon was never recovered. Judge Sean Grant described its continued absence as “disturbing.” El Jamal will be eligible for parole in April 2028.
Source: News.com.au.
