BOY'S KILLER ELIGIBLE FOR EARLY RELEASE AFTER SENTENCE REDUCTION

The family of Kaylan Hippsley, who died after being struck by a car in February 2024, say they are "devastated" after learning the driver's sentence has been reduced. Harley Whiteman was originally sentenced to six years and nine months in prison following the hit-and-run on Brecon Road in Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf. Kaylan's family successfully appealed the original sentence, leading High Court judges to increase it to nine years in July 2024. Whiteman has now had his sentence reduced to four years under the Sentencing Act 2026, making him eligible for release on licence in autumn.

Whiteman had been drinking alcohol and taking cocaine before the crash on 29 February 2024. The court heard he swerved to avoid another vehicle, mounted the pavement and struck Kaylan, throwing him into the air. The 13-year-old died three days after the incident. Whiteman fled the scene before returning, where he swore at members of the public attempting to help the critically injured boy. Lord Justice Davis said the original sentence had been "unduly lenient" when quashing it at the High Court.

Julie Craig, Kaylan's cousin, told the victim support team that the family had received notification of the sentence reduction two weeks prior. She stated that serving the remainder of his prison sentence under supervised conditions in the community meant Whiteman could be released in autumn. Craig said the family were "absolutely devastated" at the prospect of his release after serving approximately two years in custody. Release on licence means a breach of conditions can result in recall to prison.