Caleb Kennedy, a former contestant on the 19th season of “American Idol,” has been sentenced following his guilty plea for driving under the influence. The 20-year-old was arrested and charged with felony DUI in South Carolina in February 2022, following a car accident that resulted in the death of a 54-year-old man. At the time of the incident, Kennedy was 17 and driving a Ford pickup truck that veered 175 yards off the road, crashing into a garage where Larry Duane Parris was working. Parris was pronounced dead at the hospital three hours after the midday accident.
Kennedy pleaded guilty during his hearing on Monday, as reported by local CBS affiliate WSPA. The court sentenced him to 25 years in prison and a fine of $25,100. However, the sentence was reduced to eight years and a $15,000 fine. Kennedy will serve three years of his sentence under home detention, followed by five years of probation after his release.
In addition to his sentence, Kennedy is required to undergo mental health and substance abuse counseling. A representative from the 7th Circuit Solicitor’s office in Spartanburg confirmed that a plea deal was reached before the case went to trial. Solicitor Barry J. Barnette, who prosecuted Kennedy, highlighted the dangers of vape pens in society in a statement.
Reports indicate that Kennedy’s dose of Prozac had been increased shortly before the accident. He was also reportedly driving under the influence of marijuana after using a vape pen. At the time of the accident, Kennedy was reportedly on his way to his girlfriend’s house, and Parris was on the phone.
Kennedy’s attorney, Ryan Beasley, expressed his client’s remorse and extended sympathies to the Parris family. Beasley stated that Kennedy accepts responsibility for the accident and hopes for healing for everyone affected by the tragedy. He also noted that Kennedy had no prior record and was a minor at the time of the incident.
Parris, the founder of Parris Construction Company, was mourned by his family. His wife and daughter made an emotional plea during a virtual court hearing for Kennedy, asking the judge to deny his bond.
Kennedy had to leave “American Idol” early during Season 19 after a controversial video from his past surfaced online. The video showed 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.