Bradley John Chaplin Sentenced MARCH 3, 2014 A New Norfolk man appeared in the Hobart Magistrates Court for sentencing last week in relation to a tragic accident at karanja in the states central highlands on 29 February 2012. Bradley John Chaplin(27) was sentenced by Olivia McTaggart to Four months jail wholly suspended. Disqualified from driving for 15 months. Fined $260 for negligent driving. Ashley Samantha Edmonds (13) was tragically killed after quickly moving from behind a stationary bus and onto Gordon River Road, The evidence ranged from descriptions of Ashley bouncing along, to running, to a very fast walk. witnesses and the defendant described the accident as happening in a Split-Second. Mr Chaplin and a co worker were returning from Maydena and travelling east along Gordon River Road when the accident occurred. the defendant was stated as saying she just came out of no-where his passenger was stated as saying it could have been me driving All efforts were made to revive Ashley but she was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Mr Chaplin was said to be freaking out and in shock at the scene. It was noted that: The bus had activated yellow warning lights warning motorists speed should be reduced. The Defendant exceeded the speed limit within 50m of a school bus. The defendant while not under the influence of cannabis did have THC in his system. The Prosecution look favourably towards a suspended sentence. The Defence will appeal the Negligent driving charge. The driving disqualification will be stayed until the conclusion of the appeal. It was also noted that the defendant has shown considerable remorse and been significantly affected by the tragic events of that day. Outside court Ashleys father Jason said he was relieved with the outcome and it had given his family some closure. Jason was stated as saying Im just glad he was found guilty on all three charges. However Lisa and Jason Edmonds said they were Disappointed with the sentence, Lisa was stated as saying I thought he might have spent a month, just a month in prison. A memorial service For Ashley Edmonds was held at glenora on Friday to mark 2 years since the accident. From all accounts this is a very complex case that has revolved around several mitigating factors, Has divided several small communities and spawned some very concerning comments via social media.
Posted on: Wed, 05 Mar 2014 00:26:11 +0000