Rodney Johnson’s Appeal Refused

RODNEY Johnson, a 29 year old man from Quirindi who stole a truck in Murrurundi and went on a rampage down the New England Highway, ending when he crashed into a heritage building in Singleton in October 2017, was refused an appeal against his 12 year and six month gaol sentence this morning, in Sydney court.

Mr Johnson’s solicitors challenged Judge Tim Gartelmann’s sentence handed down in Newcastle Court in March last year arguing the objective seriousness.

Judge Gartelmann had described Mr Johnson’s actions as “staggeringly dangerous” and said it was “astonishing no one was killed”.

The carnage left by Mr Johnson was described by Judge Gartelmann as “akin to a war zone”, stating there was “no sentence other than imprisonment would be appropriate” and “no sentence could ever be imposed for these offences that would be adequate compensation for the victims”.

Mr Johnson has a non-parole period of six years and six months, which will expire on April 10, 2024.

Related stories:

• Lead Up To Johnson’s Rampage
• Johnson: The Facts on the Day
• Sentencing for Rodney Johnson
• Johnson Matter Mentioned in Newcastle
• Motor Left Running
• The Damage Done
• No Remorse for Victims;
• Johnson Adjourned to Newcastle
• Highway Open – Driver in Court Today’
• Police Chase Update
• Patient Update: Police Chase
• Police Chase Ends