Spartanburg, South Carolina – Country music artist Caleb Kennedy faced sentencing on Monday for his involvement in a fatal DUI crash in 2022 that resulted in the death of Larry Duane Parris, aged 54. Kennedy, a former “American Idol” contestant, has been sentenced to serve three years in home detention as part of an eight-year suspended prison sentence. The court also ordered Kennedy to pay a fine of $15,100 for his role in the tragic incident, as reported by Taste of Country.
Kennedy’s legal troubles began in February when he was arrested in Spartanburg, South Carolina after crashing into a workshop while under the influence of THC and Prozac, for which he had a prescription. The toxicology report indicated the presence of these substances in his system at the time of the accident. The crash resulted in the unfortunate death of Larry Duane Parris, who was in the workshop at the time of the collision.
Despite initially facing a 25-year prison sentence and a $25,100 fine, Kennedy’s sentence was ultimately reduced to eight years in prison and a $15,100 fine, with three years to be served in home detention. Kennedy will also receive credit for the two years and nine months he has already served. The court’s decision was made in light of the circumstances surrounding the crash and Kennedy’s cooperation throughout the legal proceedings.
The sentencing of Caleb Kennedy serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of driving under the influence and the importance of responsible behavior on the road. The tragic outcome of the DUI crash has left a community in mourning and serves as a cautionary tale for individuals to prioritize safety when operating a vehicle. Despite his previous success on “American Idol,” Kennedy’s involvement in the fatal crash has overshadowed his music career, highlighting the repercussions of reckless actions.