‘American Idol’ Alum Caleb Kennedy Sentenced For DUI Death

American Idol alum Caleb Kennedy was sentenced three years after his arrest for a DUI that resulted in the death of an innocent man. At the time of his arrest, the musical teen who appeared in Season 19 of the talent show was aged 17. 

Caleb Kennedy Was Not The Only American Idol Star In Trouble 

Two seasons before Caleb hit the scene, youngster Laine Hardy won Season 17 of the show. Later, he ruined his upcoming label as a rising country star when he placed a recording device in his girlfriend’s room. It’s taken him a lot of time attending a special program to shake off the dust. And, it’s only now that he’s making new music again.

For Caleb Kennedy, it’s years before he might get an opportunity to release a single. You might recall that he was doing really well. In fact, he made it into the Top 5. But then, he was axed from American Idol after a controversial video revealed him and a friend hanging out in Ku Klux Klan-style hoodies. 

Caleb Kennedy Gets Severe Sentence For DUI Death Reduced

People reported this week that the former American Idol contestant was sentenced after he killed Larry Duane Parris. Larry was in his fifties, a dad, and innocently working in his garage when the out-of-control musician smashed into him with his truck. At the time, he had been vaping marijuana. Additionally, he was on Prozac, and his attorney claimed the drugs reacted badly. 

According to the outlet, Caleb Kennedy was sentenced to “25 years in prison and fined $25,100, though his sentence was reduced to eight years in prison, and his fine to $15,100.” So far, he served about “three years” behind bars which will count towards his time served. Additionally, as some of his sentence will be served at home, he will probably serve only another year in prison. 

American Idol Fans React

When the outlet shared their story on Instagram, American Idol fans were able to comment about the outcome of the DUI. Here are some of their reactions:

• He should now have to pay child support for those kids who are now without a father. And help the mother or other person who is now going to struggle to live without their partner.
• So kills someone and his sentence gets reduced? What the f–k is wrong with the government and legal system??!!!
• That is a joke he killed a person he needs to be in jail for life the justice system is a failure to everyone.
• You snuff out a life due to being irresponsible and you only get 8 years?!?!? Pathetic excuse for justice.

What are your thoughts on Caleb Kennedy getting his sentence reduced to eight years instead of 25 years? Are you sad that an innocent dad lost his life because of the musician’s actions? Sound off in the comments below, and come back here often for all your American Idol news and updates.