Joseph Pickett received a suspended sentence for causing the death of Laionie Kennard in a crash near Ringwood.
Joseph Pickett, age 20, lived in Lyneham. He drove a blue BMW 3 Series that crashed off Hurn Road, which runs between Ringwood and Matchams. The crash occurred around 9:30 PM on Saturday, September 16, 2023.
Laionie Kennard, age 18 and from Verwood, was a passenger in the car. Sadly, she died at the scene. Three passengers were in the car with Pickett.
The crash happened on Hurn Road where the car left the road and crashed into some trees. The driver failed to navigate a bend. The court was in Poole, and no other cars were involved.
Dorset Police investigated the crash. The investigation showed Pickett sped between 43 and 54 mph in a 30 mph zone as he drove into the bend.
The court sentenced Pickett in Poole after he admitted causing death by careless driving. They gave him a 10-month jail term, suspended for two years.
Pickett lost his driver’s license for two years. He must pass an extended driving test and complete 250 hours of unpaid work.
PC Leanne Howes spoke about the case, sending thoughts to Laionie’s family and noting nothing can replace their loss. Howes stressed the sad impact driving without care has, with devastating results.
She emphasized that speeding is dangerous, especially at night, and passengers add more risk. Howes hopes this crash makes people think, reminding them to drive safely, be considerate, and think before getting behind the wheel.