Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns has been sentenced over his drink-driving crash.
Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns has been sentenced over his drink-driving crash.
A judge sentenced silverchair frontman Daniel Johns to probation after he was arrested for drunk driving and crashing his car.
On Wednesday, the singer appeared in Raymond Terrace Local Court after pleading guilty to high-range drink driving in the NSW Hunter region around 10.30 p.m. on March 23.
On Wednesday, the singer appeared in Raymond Terrace Local Court after pleading guilty to high-range drink driving in the NSW Hunter region around 10.30 p.m. on March 23.
In rainy conditions, Johns drove his grey SUV out of a service station on the Pacific Highway at North Arm Cove and north before crossing onto the wrong side of the road and colliding with a van. According to the facts of the case, the van rolled and slid about 100 metres onto a nature strip, while Johns’ car also rolled several times.
The 51-year-old van driver and his 55-year-old female passenger were treated at the scene, and the woman was taken to the hospital. After the accident, Johns was breathalysed and his blood alcohol level was 0.157. He voluntarily admitted himself to a rehabilitation facility.
Also Read: What is Market Research and Why is It Necessary to Start Your Business?
Magistrate Ian Cheetham said the charge was serious, but Johns’ background and circumstances were exceptional, so he sentenced him to ten months in prison with an intensive corrections order. The magistrate ordered that Johns continue his medical treatment and that he be barred from driving for seven months.
He will not go to jail, but will serve his sentence in the community.
Johns has suffered from complex PTSD, major depressive disorder, alcohol use disorder, personality disorder, and severe and chronic pain associated with reactive arthritis since his meteoric rise to fame as a 14-year-old. According to the court, the release of Johns’ new album FutureNever had caused a decline in his mental health prior to the crash. He has remained a recluse in his home since his release from rehab in June.
“If he goes outside, he’s worried about people attacking him,” Mr Wrench explained. “It’s his only refuge.”
His mother and brother, who had never spoken publicly about Johns before, told the court that despite the severity of the crash, they were glad it prompted the treatment he required.
Also Read:Coles tomato paste recalled after allergen goes undeclared
