Rohan Dennis, 34, former Olympic cyclist and world champion. He was given a six-month suspended sentence after pleading guilty to an aggravated act causing serious harm. On December 30, 2023, Dennis rammed his car into his partner Melissa Hoskins, just outside of their home in Medindie, Adelaide’s north. That this violent act happened in our peaceful community was shocking to all. The terrible incident left Hoskins with life-changing injuries, which ultimately caused her death in the Royal Adelaide Hospital.
Dennis in the South Australia District Court. The oral prosecution supported his barrister Jane Abbey’s application for a suspended sentence. The charge against him had a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment. The court imposed a sentence of one year, four months and 28 days in jail. This harmful policy sense will be on hold for two years. In addition, Dennis was ordered to a two-year good behavior bond and his driver’s license was suspended for five years.
Per court documents, Dennis and Hoskins had fought over plans for a kitchen remodel before the deadly encounter. After that argument, Dennis left their house in a rage and sped away. In response, Hoskins, according to his arrest report, jumped onto the hood of his vehicle.
Amanda Hoskins, Melissa’s mother, told the court in Victim Impact Statement at sentencing submissions. She told media that she had thought the incident was a tragic accident.
“I believe this is a tragic accident. Your temper is your downfall and needs to be addressed,” – Amanda Hoskins
Before this episode, Rohan Dennis had a stellar cycling career. He has two world titles in road time trials. He won a silver medal in the team pursuit at the 2012 Olympics and he won a bronze medal in road time trials in Tokyo.
“And I know that you would never intentionally hurt her.” – Amanda Hoskins
In February 2024, Melissa’s parents Dennis and Debbie lamenting at her public memorial service. He decided to bring their two kids along as a way of honoring her memory. The event was a joyous and celebratory occasion, filled with Melissa’s humor and grace, as family, friends, and colleagues memorialized her life and legacy.
In a display of mourning, Dennis attended Melissa Hoskins’ public memorial service in February 2024 along with their two children. The event marked a somber moment for family and friends as they remembered Melissa’s life and contributions.
