Mon, 06 January 2025 04:58:08pm
Related Tags: Harley Whiteman, Reckless driving, Death by dangerous driving, Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme, Court of Appeal ruling
Killer Driver Sentence Increased After Fleeing Scene of Tragic Accident
Killer Driver’s Sentence Increased After Fleeing Scene of Tragic Accident
In a dramatic turn of events, a reckless driver who caused the death of a 13-year-old boy and fled the scene has had his sentence significantly increased. Harley Whiteman's original sentence was deemed too lenient, prompting the Court of Appeal to impose a harsher punishment that reflects the gravity of his actions.
SOUTH WALES, UK – In a landmark ruling, Harley Whiteman, a 20-year-old from Hirwaun, South Wales, has seen his prison sentence extended from six years and nine months to nine years. The increase comes after the Solicitor General referred his case under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme, highlighting the need for a punishment that fits the severity of his crime.
On 29 February 2024, Whiteman's reckless driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs led to the tragic death of 13-year-old Kaylan Hippsley. The court heard harrowing details of how Whiteman, driving at high speeds with two friends, lost control of his vehicle on Brecon Road. In a desperate attempt to avoid another car, he swerved, mounted the kerb, and struck Kaylan, who was walking nearby.
Kaylan was thrown into the air by the impact and despite immediate medical attention at the scene, he succumbed to his injuries three days later in the hospital. In a shocking display of disregard, Whiteman fled the scene only to return shortly after, where he shouted at bystanders attempting to help Kaylan.
Upon his arrest, Whiteman refused to take a breathalyser test and was verbally abusive towards police officers. His initial sentence, handed down on 30 April 2024, was widely criticized as insufficient given the gravity of his actions.
The Solicitor General, Sarah Sackman MP, expressed the sentiments of many when she remarked, "Harley Whiteman’s reckless actions have broken a family and stolen the life of a thirteen-year-old boy. That Whiteman fled the scene before abusing people tending to Kaylan, as well as police officers, is utterly deplorable."
Sackman emphasized the importance of the increased sentence as a warning to others: "The court’s rightly increased Whiteman’s sentence and this should send a clear warning to those who recklessly drive at high speeds and endanger the lives of others that they will be punished with the full force of the law."
On 24 July, the Court of Appeal substituted Whiteman’s sentence with a nine-year detention, underscoring the judicial system's commitment to delivering justice for Kaylan Hippsley and his grieving family.
Key Points:
- Original Incident: On 29 February 2024, Harley Whiteman drove recklessly under the influence, leading to the death of 13-year-old Kaylan Hippsley.
- Initial Sentence: Whiteman was initially sentenced to six years and nine months’ detention in a Young Offenders Institution on 30 April 2024.
- Court of Appeal Ruling: The sentence was increased to nine years on 24 July 2024 after being referred under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
- Solicitor General's Statement: Sarah Sackman MP condemned Whiteman's actions and emphasized the need for appropriate punishment.
- Message of Deterrence: The increased sentence serves as a stern warning against reckless driving and the severe consequences it entails.
