Caleb Kennedy, a one-time participant in the 19th season of the popular television show “American Idol,” has been handed a sentence after pleading guilty to a charge of driving under the influence. The 20-year-old was apprehended and indicted with a felony DUI in South Carolina in February 2022, following a vehicular mishap that led to the demise of a 54-year-old man. Kennedy, who was 17 at the time, was behind the wheel of a Ford pickup truck that strayed 175 yards off the road, colliding with a garage where Larry Duane Parris was occupied. Parris succumbed to his injuries at the hospital three hours post the midday mishap.
Kennedy admitted his guilt during his court hearing on Monday, as reported by local CBS affiliate WSPA. The court handed him a 25-year prison term and a fine of $25,100. However, the sentence was later reduced to eight years and a $15,000 fine. Kennedy’s sentence includes three years of home detention, followed by five years of probation upon his release.
In addition to his sentence, Kennedy is mandated to participate in mental health and substance abuse counseling. A spokesperson from the 7th Circuit Solicitor’s office in Spartanburg confirmed that a plea agreement was reached prior to the case proceeding to trial. Solicitor Barry J. Barnette, who prosecuted Kennedy, underscored the perils of vape pens in society in a statement.
Reports suggest that Kennedy’s Prozac dosage had been augmented shortly before the accident. He was also allegedly driving under the influence of marijuana after using a vape pen. At the time of the accident, Kennedy was reportedly en route to his girlfriend’s house, and Parris was on the phone.
Ryan Beasley, Kennedy’s attorney, conveyed his client’s regret and extended condolences to the Parris family. Beasley stated that Kennedy acknowledges responsibility for the accident and hopes for healing for everyone impacted by the tragedy. He also pointed out that Kennedy had no prior record and was a minor at the time of the incident.
Parris, the founder of Parris Construction Company, was grieved by his family. His wife and daughter made an emotional plea during a virtual court hearing for Kennedy, requesting the judge to deny his bond.
Kennedy had to prematurely exit “American Idol” during Season 19 after a contentious video from his past emerged online. The video depicted him with a friend wearing a hood similar to those worn by the Ku Klux Klan. Kennedy apologized for the video and expressed regret for his actions. Judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan shared their own statements about Kennedy’s departure. Richie referred to the situation as unfortunate, while Bryan expressed his love for all the contestants and his hope for Kennedy’s growth as an artist.