Sentence extended but no jail for NT hit-and-run driver Jake Danby who called victims ‘oxygen thieves’
The Guardian World
by Australian Associated PressFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jake Danby, the driver involved in a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of an Aboriginal man and left another injured, has had his sentence extended from five months to two years under home detention. Despite this extension, he will not serve time in jail, drawing criticism for his earlier remarks referring to the victims as "oxygen thieves." Danby’s actions occurred in June 2024 when he struck two men in Darwin, with one succumbing to his injuries and the other sustaining serious harm.
The families of the victims are deeply aggrieved by the court's decision, feeling that justice has not been fully served. They express frustration over what they perceive as leniency towards Danby, especially given his initial comments, which were deemed inappropriate and insensitive. Legal experts have noted that while the sentence was harsher than initially imposed, it still falls short of a prison term, leaving many questioning the fairness of the legal system in such cases.
This case highlights broader concerns about racial injustice and the treatment of Indigenous communities within the criminal justice system. Advocacy groups emphasize the need for stricter accountability to ensure that such incidents are met with appropriate consequences. Public outrage underscores the importance of addressing systemic issues and ensuring that marginalized voices are heard in matters of justice. The outcome has sparked debates over the adequacy of current legal frameworks in protecting vulnerable populations and delivering equitable outcomes.
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026