Prosecutors appeal Christopher Joannidis’ ‘inadequate’ sentence after crash kills five

·

Prosecutors are appealing the “manifestly inadequate” sentence handed to Christopher Joannidis, who was jailed for five-and-a-half years after causing a devastating crash that killed five people and a dog in Strathmerton, Victoria.

According to Nine News, Joannidis was warned by police just minutes before the crash about the dangers of the road and had been issued a speeding ticket for travelling at 118km/h in a 100km/h zone.

Despite this, he ignored give way signs, crossed three sets of rumble strips, and drove onto the Murray Valley Highway without stopping.

joannides
The Strathmerton crash was the deadliest in the state in more than a decade. Picture: Ian Currie.

This led to a collision that pushed a Nissan Navara into the path of a milk truck, killing 62-year-old Deborah Markey, four farm workers from Taiwan and Hong Kong, and Markey’s dog.

Despite pleading guilty to five counts of dangerous driving causing death, Joannidis could walk free on parole in less than three years.

The Office of Public Prosecutions has now confirmed an appeal, arguing the sentence fails to reflect the severity of the tragedy.

Source: Nine News

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Cyprus War Memorial Committee launched in New South Wales

The Cyprus War Memorial Committee was officially launched this week. Read more via The Greek Herald about what it is.

The Greek Herald honoured by Mark Coure MP at Community Recognition Morning Tea

The Greek Herald was formally recognised by NSW Member for Oatley, Mark Coure MP, at a special Community Recognition Morning Tea.

Areti Ketime to perform at Zeibekiko Festival Australia 2025

Acclaimed Greek singer Areti Ketime will travel to Australia this October to perform at the third annual Zeibekiko Festival Australia.

Mates, snakes and the complexities of Greek Australian friendships

In many Greek Australian households, children grew up hearing cautionary phrases like “View today’s friends like tomorrow’s enemies.”

Strengthening Cyprus–Australia relations: Andreas Gregoriou holds talks in Canberra

During a visit to Canberra, Andreas Gregoriou met with senior Australian officials to strengthen ties in agriculture.

You May Also Like

NSW Premier tightens COVID-19 restrictions for Greater Sydney

NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, has tightened COVID-19 restrictions for Greater Sydney after the state recorded 44 new cases today.

Sam Konstas returns to Test side as Australia shakes up top order

Rising star Sam Konstas has earned a recall to Australia’s Test side for the opening match against the West Indies.

Walk Down Memory Lane: Sydney Greek Picnics

The Sydney Greek picnics contain memories to be cherished for the rest of peoples lives and it's a shame children don't get to experience the same feeling.