Former World Champion Cyclist Avoids Jail Over Wife’s Death in Adelaide Car Incident

Former Olympic cyclist and world champion Rohan Dennis received a suspended sentence after a tragic car incident that led to the death of his wife, fellow Olympian Melissa Hoskins, outside their Adelaide home in December 2023. Dennis pleaded guilty to committing an aggravated act likely to cause harm but was not criminally responsible for Hoskins' death. The couple had argued prior to the incident, and Hoskins jumped onto the bonnet of Dennis's car as he tried to leave; he drove slowly for about 75 meters before she fell and was fatally injured. Dennis was sentenced to one year, four months, and 28 days in jail, suspended for two years, with a two-year good behavior bond and a five-year driver's license suspension. The court acknowledged Dennis' remorse, guilty plea, and role as the sole carer of their young children, while the judge described the incident as tragic and recognized the profound grief experienced by family and friends. Hoskins' family expressed a desire to maintain a respectful relationship with Dennis for the sake of their grandchildren and emphasized prioritizing the children's welfare over incarceration.