Josh Edwards sentenced to 10 years in jail after Nowra robbery and murder of Michael Kerr

A man will spend years in jail for his role in the robbery and stabbing murder of an innocent man over $30 and a mobile phone, despite the court hearing he was a “reluctant” participant in the senseless attack.

Micheal Kerr (left) was killed on January 4, 2022. Pictures: NSW Police

A man will spend years in jail for his role in the robbery and stabbing murder of an innocent man over $30 and a mobile phone, despite the court hearing he was a “reluctant” participant in the senseless attack.

Josh Edwards, 24, was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison – six years and six months without parole – for his role in the murder of 51-year-old Michael Kerr in Nowra on January 4, 2022.

The Supreme Court in Nowra heard Edwards was involved in the attack but did not stab Mr Kerr to death.

Two co-accused – both 17-years-old – remain before a Children’s Court. One after his alleged involvement and one allegedly delivering the fatal stab wound.

Their cases remain before the courts.

Justice Belinda Rigg ruled on Tuesday during Edwards’ sentencing that while the then 22-year-old did not inflict the fatal wounding, he was guilty of murder due to his knowledge of the stabbing and agreeing to rob Mr Kerr.

Josh Edwards was sentenced in the Supreme Court at Nowra. Picture: John Appleyard

Court documents reveal Mr Kerr was walking home from Shoalhaven Hospital after visiting his sick wife when he was targeted.

The court heard Edwards and his two co-accused spotted him in the Nowra CBD, before one said “let’s go get this c**t”.

Josh Edwards was arrested at a Warilla address. Picture: NSW Police

The trio, believed to be in a stolen car, approached Mr Kerr, who fought back.

The court heard he was then stabbed and the attackers fled with just $30 and a mobile phone.

Mr Kerr was rushed back to Shoalhaven Hospital, where he later died.

One day before sentencing, Mr Kerr’s sister, Maryann Sandona, told the court in an emotional statement she was horrified her brother’s life was taken over something so “senseless”.

The crime scene established on the corner of Nowra Ln and Worrigee St on January 4, 2022. Picture: Dylan Arvela

“No parent should have to bury their child,” she said.

“We no longer feel safe in Nowra.”

After a year-long investigation, Edwards and his co-accused were arrested in January 2023.

Edwards has remained in custody since and while he pleaded guilty to murder and attempted robbery in the Nowra Local Court, his co-accused denied the charges and are due to face trial later this year.

During sentencing on Tuesday, Justice Rigg acknowledged Edwards’ depression, anxiety, anti-social personality disorder and PTSD.

His defence barrister, Scott Fraser, previously argued a long-term prison stay would be “difficult” for him.

However, Crown prosecutor Christopher Taylor said the severity of the crime could not be ignored.

Before sentencing, Justice Rigg said while Edwards initially tried to avoid responsibility, she believed he was “genuinely remorseful”.

“The offender had no intent to kill,” she said.

“He was a reluctant participant.”

Despite pleas for leniency, Edwards was convicted and sentenced to the term of imprisonment.

His sentence was backdated to his 2023 arrest, making him eligible for release in January, 2030.

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