UPDATE: A man has been sentenced to over three years in prison following a shocking home invasion in Wodonga. Orion Jesse Harding, armed with an imitation gun, terrorized a teenage boy and a woman during the violent incident that occurred around 11:30 PM on May 8, 2022.
Harding, accompanied by his partner Alanna-Lee Sargeson, forced their way into an Anderson Street home, believing the residents had made comments about dog fighting to a puppy seller. The situation escalated quickly when Harding confronted a 17-year-old boy, pressing the fake weapon against his forehead and threatening him with death if he lied about the supposed claims.
The ordeal worsened as Harding and Sargeson stole items from the house, including alcohol and cigarettes, while warning the victims against contacting law enforcement. The following day, the couple returned, forcibly taking the teenager into a car and issuing further threats, including a chilling warning about a potential shooting.
In a harrowing moment, the female victim was struck with the imitation gun near her eye and choked while being threatened with dismemberment if Harding did not receive a puppy from the next litter. This brutal incident culminated in their arrest on May 16, 2022, at their home in Wangaratta, where authorities recovered four imitation gel blaster guns, cash, and an ounce of cannabis.
Harding, who has a troubled past marked by drug use since age 11 and a lack of education, faced multiple charges, including home invasion, armed robbery, and false imprisonment. After serving 441 days in custody prior to sentencing, he was ordered to serve a minimum of two and a half years and a maximum of three years and ten months in prison.
Sargeson was also sentenced in July to 131 days in custody, followed by a two-year corrections order. This case highlights the urgent need for community awareness and safety measures against violent crime.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this incident, officials emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious behavior and protecting vulnerable residents. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
