Former SA Comanchero bikie sentenced over vicious assault of good Samaritan left with brain damage

Former SA Comanchero bikie Danny Rapley, 45, has been sentenced to more than five years’ imprisonment for the assault of a good Samaritan who intervened in an argument between Rapley and his partner.

The assault in 2021 at a supermarket in Salisbury North left victim Darren Trenaman with an irreparable brain injury and incapable of simple tasks.

Rapley pleaded guilty in the District Court to recklessly causing serious harm to the father of two.

During sentencing, judge Karen Thomas said Trenaman, “can no longer walk, get out of bed, go to the bathroom on his own, his meals are liquid formula” .. delivered through a feeding tube.”

South Australia Police launched a man hunt for Rapley who fled the scene after assaulting Trenaman.

He was arrested on day two of being on the run.

Teneman’s family previously told the court in their victim impact statements he began serving a life sentence of “confinement, helplessness, loneliness and confusion” following the incident.

Thomas said the attack was an over-reaction to someone who presented no apparent threat.

She said the 45-year-old had a “disturbing pattern of violence” linked to drug abuse and an extensive criminal history, having been jailed 12 times.

Rapley was sentenced to five years and five months in jail.

He will be eligible for parole in March 2026.

Outside court, Rapley’s supporters said he regretted his actions.