A former used car salesman has been sentenced to a minimum of 14 years in prison following a violent confrontation that escalated during a drug deal with a Perth teenager. The incident, which occurred in August 2022, ended in the tragic death of the 17-year-old victim, marking a grim outcome for both young men who hoped to emulate a gangster lifestyle.
Jaden Martinovich, briefly described by his loved ones as kind and caring, found himself embroiled in a dangerous situation when he met in North Perth to sell synthetic drugs. Unbeknownst to him, a friend—who was also the victim’s best mate—was plotting to rob him of his car. During the altercation, Martinovich was struck on the head with a hammer as the teenager attempted to flee in his vehicle.
In a desperate move to stop the theft, Martinovich stabbed the 17-year-old in the heart. Following the incident, he disposed of the weapon in a drain and was recorded on a dashcam stating chillingly that he would sleep peacefully, having harmed someone. His comments were later interpreted by Justice Bruno Fiannaca as an attempt to project a tough persona.
Delivering the sentence, Justice Fiannaca referred to the events as a “tragic culmination of foolish and reckless decisions” by both young men. He acknowledged Martinovich’s genuine remorse but noted that his actions were a serious reflection of the repercussions from trying to behave like a gangster. Additionally, the judge considered Martinovich’s difficult time in custody, including being assaulted and placed in protective custody soon after the murder.
As Martinovich, now 21, faced the courtroom today, his parents were present during the sentencing process. Following the judgment, Martinovich is mandated to serve at least 14 years before he is eligible for parole.