In the case of R v BZZ & AZY [2024] QSC 138, the Supreme Court of Queensland sentenced two juveniles, referred to as BZZ and AZY, who faced multiple charges including burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and malicious acts with intent. The incident, which occurred on 16 August 2021, involved the juveniles breaking into two homes and engaging in violent confrontations with the occupants, including the family of Mr Toutai Kefu, an international rugby player. The defendants caused grievous bodily harm and wounding to several family members. Both juveniles were juveniles at the time of the offence and were sentenced under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 1992.
For BZZ, the sentences ranged from 12 months’ to 8 years’ detention for seven counts, to be served concurrently. The court ordered release after serving 50 percent of the detention period, with no convictions recorded. AZY received similar sentences, with additional charges resulting in detentions ranging from 3 months to 7 years, also to be served concurrently. AZY’s release was also ordered after serving 50 percent of the detention period, with no convictions recorded.
The court highlighted the seriousness of the offences but took into account the juvenile status, lack of prior criminal history, and the rehabilitative efforts made by both defendants while in detention. The court determined that special circumstances justified the discretion for early release after serving half of the detention period.