A chronic drug user with “little regard for the law” who broke into the homes of two women, including one close to 100-years-old, while fleeing police has been jailed for 16 months.
Jonathon Maxwell Newall, 42, pleaded guilty to stealing and assault by deprivation of liberty after the frightening incidents in Ulverstone in March 2024.
The chaos began when police spotted Newall near the Leven Bridge and gave chase. He ran into a nearby park before forcing his way into a 61-year-old woman’s garden shed.
When she discovered him hiding, Newall claimed men in a black car were trying to harm him.
While she checked the street, he snatched her wallet containing $65 and personal cards.
Newall then broke into the home of a 92-year-old woman who lived alone and relied on mobility aids.
He locked the doors, pulled the curtains and trapped the frail pensioner inside for about five minutes.
“Don’t let them get me,” he told her.
The woman managed to call for help through a window before police surrounded the house.
When Newall refused to open the door, officers forced their way in.
Shattered glass struck the elderly woman, who was on blood-thinning medication, leaving her with cuts that required hospital treatment.
Supreme Court Justice Tamara Jago said the ordeal “must have been terrifying” for the woman, who has since died.
“She was frail and vulnerable and entirely unable to protect herself,” Justice Jago said. “She was entitled to feel safe and protected within her own home.”
“Yet, you violated that without any regard for her well-being to achieve your own selfish purpose of endeavouring to avoid arrest by police.”
The court heard the woman’s final weeks at home were marred by anxiety following the incident.
Newall has an extensive criminal record, including 35 burglary convictions, 90 stealing convictions and multiple drug offences.
He has been a heavy drug user since his teens and has twice failed court-mandated rehabilitation programs, the court heard.
Justice Jago said the seriousness of the offending meant general deterrence and denunciation had to be the focus of sentencing.
Newall must serve 10 months before being eligible for parole.
