Hit-and-Run Killer’s Jail Term Hiked Over Teen’s Tragic Death
The High Court has slammed the brakes on leniency, upping the jail sentence for Harley Whiteman, 20, responsible for the hit-and-run death of 13-year-old Kaylan Hippsley. The tragic crash happened on Brecon Road, Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf, last February 29.
Harley Whiteman’s Sentence Jumps from Six to Nine Years
Whiteman was initially sentenced to six years and nine months in prison back in April. But prosecutors flagged the term as “unduly lenient,” prompting an appeal. Following the High Court’s ruling, he will now serve nine years behind bars. His driving ban has also been extended from eight years and four months to a whopping 11 years.
Deadly Crash Details: Drugs, Speed & Callous Behaviour
On the day of the crash, Whiteman was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine. He swerved to avoid another car, lost control, and struck Kaylan as he walked to a youth centre with friends. The impact hurled Kaylan into the air, causing fatal injuries. The boy died three days later.
After fleeing, Whiteman shockingly returned to shout abuse at bystanders trying to help. This cold-hearted behaviour weighed heavily in the court’s decision to toughen his punishment.
Judges Slam Cardiff Court for Soft Sentence
The High Court judges took Cardiff Crown Court to task, saying it focused too much on Whiteman’s youth and not enough on his reckless, deadly driving.
“Whiteman drove in a highly impaired state, at speeds wholly inappropriate for a built-up area. Kaylan was a pedestrian, a young one at that, standing in a place where he should have been safe,” attorney general’s rep Kelly Brocklehurst declared in court.
Defence lawyer James Hartson argued the initial sentence was fair given Whiteman’s clean record and carpentry apprenticeship. But Lord Justice William Davis dismissed these points, insisting the brutal consequences demanded a harsher penalty.
Family Left Heartbroken Despite Sentence Boost
For Kaylan’s family, the extra years offer little comfort. Cousin Julie Craig said, “We feel justified in appealing the sentence, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that we miss Kaylan immensely.”
Whiteman must now serve at least two-thirds of his new nine-year term, reflecting the courts’ tougher stance on serious driving offences.
