### "American Idol" Alumnus Caleb Kennedy Sentenced for DUI Incident Leading to Death

Former "American Idol" contestant Caleb Kennedy has been handed an eight-year prison sentence and a $15,000 fine after pleading guilty to driving under the influence, according to Us Weekly. The 20-year-old was involved in a tragic accident in February 2022 in South Carolina that resulted in the death of 54-year-old Larry Duane Parris. Kennedy, who was 17 at the time, lost control of his Ford pickup truck, veering off the road and crashing into a garage where Parris was working.

Parris passed away at the hospital three hours after the crash that occurred at 12:30 p.m. Kennedy has been sentenced to eight years in prison, reduced from an initial 25-year sentence, and will serve three years of home detention. Following his release, he will be on probation for five years.

"This case shows the dangers of vape pens to society," noted Solicitor Barry J. Barnette, who was responsible for prosecuting Kennedy. Reports suggest that Kennedy's actions were influenced by a combination of increased Prozac dosage and marijuana use from a vape pen, as stated by his defense team.

Kennedy’s attorney, Ryan Beasley, conveyed the singer's remorse and extended sympathies to the Parris family. "A very good person died, and I feel so bad for the Parris family. Caleb's very remorseful, and his heartfelt sympathies are extended to the Parris family. This sentencing starts the healing process for everybody involved in this situation," Beasley told the Greenville News.

Larry Duane Parris was the founder of the Parris Construction Company, and his loss deeply affected his family. His wife Donna and daughter Kelsi made emotional appeals during a virtual court hearing shortly after the crash, urging the judge to deny Kennedy's bond.

Kennedy had previously made headlines during his time on "American Idol" Season 19, where he made it to the final five before an old, allegedly racist video surfaced online, leading to his departure from the show. He apologized to his fans via Instagram, expressing deep regret for his past actions.

Fellow "American Idol" judges, including Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, also commented on the unfortunate events surrounding Kennedy, expressing their sadness but support for his personal growth.

The tragic accident and subsequent legal proceedings mark a difficult chapter in Caleb Kennedy's young life, as he now faces the consequences of his actions while extending his remorse and seeking healing for all parties involved.