Kamal Eljamal, a 35-year-old man from Condell Park, Sydney, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for the shooting of his wife, Georgina Vlahos, in January 2023. While she was lying in bed, Eljamal fired multiple shots through their garage roof, with one bullet striking Vlahos, fracturing her ribs and spine, which resulted in a permanent spinal disability.
Following the incident, Eljamal transported his injured wife to a hospital, falsely claiming he had found her in that condition. He returned home afterward to clean the scene. On February 5, he pleaded guilty to charges of grievous bodily harm and unlawful use of a firearm.
Despite Vlahos forgiving her husband, Judge Sean Grant remarked on the severity of her injuries, stating she would never walk again. The judge emphasized the necessity of a firm message to the community regarding unlawful firearm possession, indicating significant penalties would be enforced.
After the shooting, police discovered multiple bullet holes throughout the residence, but the firearm used by Eljamal was never recovered. This raised concerns, as Judge Grant pointed out the risks associated with the weapon remaining in the community. The court also noted that Eljamal had prior convictions for drug-related offences and struggled with substance abuse. Since his arrest, he has undertaken rehabilitation therapy.
While considering Eljamal’s rehabilitation efforts, Judge Grant maintained that he should not receive a reduced sentence for the harm he inflicted. Vlahos now requires help with daily activities, including personal hygiene, due to her injury, though there are support systems in place for her care.
Ultimately, Eljamal was sentenced to serve a minimum of four years and three months in prison, with eligibility for parole set for April 2028, after accounting for his time served.