Former “American Idol” contestant Caleb Kennedy is gearing up for an 8-year prison sentence, but the 20-year-old is holding onto his passion for music.
According to his attorney, Ryan Beasley, Caleb has been hard at work creating new songs and is determined to pursue a career in music once he’s free.
Beasley shared that Caleb has spent the past few years writing songs, using music as an outlet during this challenging time. The attorney expressed hope that Kennedy’s talent and perseverance will lead to success in the music industry once his legal troubles are behind him.
The legal battle culminated this week when Caleb pleaded guilty to felony DUI resulting in death, a tragic incident stemming from a 2022 crash. He received an 8-year sentence, which includes 5 years in prison, 3 years of home detention, and an additional 5 years on probation. Caleb will also undergo counseling and meet other legal requirements during his sentence.
Beasley emphasized that Caleb’s faith and family have been his pillars of strength as he prepares for his incarceration. “He’s leaning on God heavily,” Beasley stated, adding that prayer has been central to Caleb and his family’s journey.
The family has also consistently prayed for the victim’s loved ones… Larry Parris, a 54-year-old man who tragically lost his life when Caleb crashed his vehicle into Parris’ garage.
Although Kennedy hasn’t admitted to feeling fear, Beasley noted the young artist is understandably apprehensive. Caleb has been asking questions about prison security levels and trying to mentally prepare for what lies ahead. “He’s putting on a brave face, but I believe he’s very scared,” Beasley revealed.
Authorities reported that Caleb was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the accident, having taken hits from a weed pen before getting behind the wheel of his 2011 Ford. The crash claimed Parris’ life, forever altering the lives of both families.
