Albion Park, Australia — A man with a violent criminal history has been sentenced to prison once again following a brutal home invasion that left two victims injured. Zlatan Popovic, in his 50s, was previously incarcerated for manslaughter stemming from a notorious shooting in 1999 and found himself back in custody after an incident that unfolded on May 20, 2023.
During the early morning hours, Popovic and two accomplices forcibly entered a residence in Albion Park, confronting four individuals inside. The group demanded valuables while intimidating their victims. One resident complied initially, handing over a small amount of drugs, but the assailants were unsatisfied, leading to further violence. Reports indicate that one of the intruders struck a victim in the head with an axe, causing minor injuries.
The intruders continued their assault by breaching a locked bedroom, where they claimed a second resident owed money. After physically assaulting this victim, including a punch to the face and threats of violence, they fled the scene. Popovic’s role in the attack rendered him legally accountable for the actions of his accomplices.
Following a police investigation, Popovic was arrested in December 2023. Initially denying his involvement, he later confessed to being under the influence of methamphetamine during the incident and agreed to participate in the assault. He pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated break and enter and committing a serious indictable offense.
During sentencing, Judge Andrew Haesler expressed concern over Popovic’s long history of violence and hardship. He noted the psychological scars from Popovic’s childhood trauma, which have impacted his moral judgment throughout his life. Judge Haesler emphasized that the community expects strict consequences for those who commit violent acts, especially when they inflict harm on others.
Popovic’s sentencing included a three-year and nine-month prison term, with a non-parole period of two years and three months. While the maximum penalty for his offenses could reach 20 years, the judge allowed for a reduction in sentencing due to Popovic’s early guilty plea and his previous time served related to a separate case.
According to Judge Haesler, Popovic’s actions not only have repercussions for himself but also for his family, particularly his two teenage children who remain under the care of his mother. The judge acknowledged Popovic’s stated desire to overcome his drug issues, as he indicated a commitment to improve for the sake of his family.
He will be eligible for parole on June 3, 2026, marking another attempt for rehabilitation following a life marred by crime and tragedy. The judge’s comments highlight the societal responsibility to deter violent behavior, reinforcing that individuals who engage in such acts risk significant consequences and separation from their families.