A tradie from South Australia, Quinn McPherson, aged 21, has received a three-year community corrections order from the Victorian Supreme Court after pleading guilty to reckless conduct endangering life. This verdict comes following a serious incident where he held his friend, Alex Robinson, in a chokehold for several minutes, which ultimately led to Robinson’s death.
Initially charged with manslaughter, McPherson opted to admit to the lesser charge. The court was informed that on May 13, 2023, following an evening filled with vodka, beer, and cocaine, he applied the chokehold during what he described as “play fighting.” However, the situation escalated, and McPherson continued the hold until he noticed Robinson’s lips turning blue. He then instructed two other friends to call for an ambulance, and while they attempted CPR, Robinson could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.
During the court proceedings, McPherson conveyed to police that their intentions were not malicious, highlighting their friendship. Justice James Elliott, presiding over the case, stated that Robinson’s demise was a tragic outcome of inherently dangerous behaviour during their play fighting. Nonetheless, the judge acknowledged McPherson’s genuine remorse and indicated that he would carry the weight of this incident for the rest of his life.
As part of his community corrections order, McPherson is mandated to complete 200 hours of community service and engage in drug and alcohol rehabilitation.