The State’s Attorney General has lodged an appeal over the “manifestly inadequate” sentences given to the two teenagers who attacked Wallabies legend Toutai Kefu and his family in a violent home invasion.
The teens stormed the Brisbane home of the rugby union great in August 2021, attacking him, his wife, and two children with knives after they were disturbed during the break-in.
The pair, who were both aged 15 at the time of the attack, were originally charged with attempted murder, but instead offered to plead guilty to the lesser charge of malicious acts with intent.
The juveniles were sentenced to seven years and eight years behind bars in June this year, however, neither had a conviction recorded.
Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath confirmed in a statement on Wednesday night that she had made the decision to lodge an appeal following public outrage.
“After receiving advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions I have made the decision to appeal the sentences given to two juvenile offenders convicted over a home invasion involving the Kefu family,” Ms D’Ath said.
“Appeals have been lodged on the grounds the sentences imposed were manifestly inadequate, having regard to the maximum penalty and the declaration that some of the offences were heinous.
“Given this appeal process is now underway, no further comment will be made on the matter.”
