Suspended Driver Jailed for Nine Years After Fatal Heckenberg Crash
A suspended driver has received a nine-year jail sentence after a dangerous driving incident in Heckenberg, south-west Sydney, which occurred at double the speed limit and resulted in the deaths of two siblings.
Johnson Kokozian, 23, was operating his SUV with friends when he attempted to overtake another vehicle in 2023. Kokozian, a suspended driver, crossed his Mercedes-Benz AMG onto the opposing lane, exceeding the 50km/h speed limit, and collided head-on with a vehicle occupied by two siblings.
He did not stop to assist Alina Kauffman, 24, and Ernesto Salazar, 15, who were confirmed deceased at the site of the collision. Kokozian departed the scene and focused on the damage to his uninsured vehicle, stating that the incident resulted in a loss of $300,000 and anticipating a lengthy incarceration.
Judge Condemns 'Abandonment of Moral Responsibility'
NSW District Court Judge David Arnott stated that Kokozian's actions during and after the September 1 crash constituted "an abandonment of moral responsibility."
"an abandonment of moral responsibility."
The judge noted that Kokozian's concern was primarily for the financial loss from his damaged vehicle rather than the occupants of the other car, which he passed as he exited the scene. Judge Arnott characterized Kokozian's failure to stop and provide assistance as "serious and callous," adding that "self-preservation and self-interest were key factors in his decision to flee the scene."
While initial actions did not indicate remorse, the judge determined that Kokozian now experiences "overwhelming guilt." Initially facing manslaughter charges, Kokozian pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death and two counts of failing to assist after a fatal impact. He received a sentence of nine years, with a non-parole period of six years and six months.
Victim's Mother Expresses Distress
Angelina Kauffman, the mother of the victims, expressed distress upon the sentencing. She has consistently sought justice for her children throughout the legal proceedings.
After leaving the courthouse, Ms. Kauffman displayed visible emotion and expressed a sentiment of injustice.
"My kids' lives mean nothing to the court."
Call for Stricter Road Offense Penalties
Ms. Kauffman initiated a petition, gathering over 20,000 signatures, advocating for the NSW Parliament to consider increasing maximum penalties for severe road offenses.
A Law Reform Commission review, finalized in February, concluded that existing penalties for serious road crimes are appropriate and that increased maximum penalties would likely not enhance deterrence. The review also determined that introducing a new vehicular manslaughter offense was unnecessary and could lead to confusion.