October 22nd 2024.
A young driver has been spared from jail time after causing the tragic hit-and-run that claimed the life of South Australian Police Commissioner Grant Stevens' son, Charlie, during Schoolies week. Dhirren Singh Randhawa, who was 19 years old and from Encounter Bay, appeared in the SA District Court on Tuesday for his sentencing. The court ruled that he would serve a suspended sentence of one year, one month, and seven days in jail, with a non-parole period of seven months. This sentence is contingent upon Randhawa's good behavior for the next two years. Additionally, he has been banned from driving for 10 years.
The incident, which occurred on November 17 at Goolwa Beach, south of Adelaide, was a result of Randhawa pleading guilty to aggravated driving without due care and leaving the scene of a crash. During the sentencing hearing, the court learned more about the details of this tragedy. It was revealed that Charlie Stevens, who was 18 years old at the time, and three of his friends were enjoying Schoolies at a shack owned by his family. At around 9pm, they had approached Randhawa to ask for a ride to Victor Harbor. However, he declined, citing concerns about his P-plates and the risk of losing demerit points.
In a tragic turn of events, Randhawa performed a U-turn and accidentally struck Charlie, causing irreversible brain damage. He passed away at Flinders Medical Centre the following day. After the incident, Randhawa drove away in a state of shock and disbelief. However, upon seeing a police car, he stopped and reported what had happened.
During the court proceedings on October 3, Randhawa took the opportunity to address Charlie's family, expressing his remorse and sorrow. He described learning about Charlie's life support being switched off as the most difficult thing he had ever heard. He also apologized to Charlie's parents, mentioning that seeing them on TV talking about their son brought out a deep sadness within him. He continued to say that there were no words to express how sorry he was, and he deeply regretted his actions.
In his victim statement, Grant Stevens, Charlie's father, shared the impact that this tragedy had on their family. He addressed Randhawa, stating that he could never understand the magnitude of what he had taken from them. He also mentioned that not a single day goes by without them shedding tears and thinking about their beloved son, who was a vibrant, caring, and fun-loving young man with bright plans for the future. Now, all they have left are memories, which simply aren't enough.
The loss of Charlie Stevens was a heartbreaking event that deeply affected not only his family but also the entire community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating consequences that can result from reckless behavior behind the wheel. The Stevens family will forever mourn the loss of their son, and their words in court serve as a poignant reminder of the love and light that Charlie brought into their lives.
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