We successfully defended our client and obtained a reduced sentence for them after they were charged with causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) and failing to stop when they ran over a Sydney Parking Ranger.
This case received a lot of media attention, including the Daily Mail and News.com, so we are using the client’s real name (which we do not usually do.)
Our client, Matthew Valerio, faced serious charges after a heated incident involving a Sydney parking ranger. Through strategic legal defence, O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors achieved a favorable outcome.
Matthew, while attempting to leave a no-stopping zone, hit a parking ranger with his car, causing grievous bodily harm (GBH). He did not stop after the incident, leading to additional charges. Our legal team effectively reduced his sentence through diligent defence and compelling arguments.
Man charged with running over a Sydney parking ranger
Matthew had parked his car in a no-stopping zone one evening. When he returned, a Sydney parking ranger was issuing him a ticket. A confrontation ensued, during which Matthew’s friend verbally abused the rangers. The Crown alleged that Matthew was the one who abused them. Subsequently, Matthew drove towards the rangers, hitting one of them and causing serious injuries. Despite the gravity of the situation, Matthew did not stop, resulting in charges of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) and Failure to Stop after causing GBH.
Our firm, O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, instructed Philip Strickland SC and Evan James of counsel to defend Matthew. He pled guilty, and the sentencing judge initially indicated a potential minimum sentence of four years. The sentencing hearing spanned two days, with multiple disputed facts. For instance, it was contested whether Matthew or his friend:
- abused the ranger,
- whether Matthew knowingly hit the ranger,
- whether he swerved to avoid one ranger,
- or if he was distracted by his navigation system.
Criminal lawyer for causing grievous bodily harm
We argued that the incident fell into the lower-mid range of severity and emphasized Matthew’s strong subjective factors, advocating for special circumstances. The Crown, however, argued for a higher range of severity and a longer sentence.
Ultimately, the judge sided with our arguments. She found the offence in the lower-mid range and acknowledged the special circumstances, reducing the non-parole period by 65%.
Matthew’s sentence was significantly reduced due to our strategic criminal defence. Instead of a potential four-year minimum sentence, he received a much lighter sentence.
Read our other criminal case studies for causing grievous harm.
Need a criminal lawyer?
If you face similar charges or need legal advice, contact O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors. Enquire online or call us at (02) 9261 4281. We can also set up a free appointment with our civil lawyers in our Sydney office.
