Kurtis Dwyer, 35, who lost control of his car and ran over little Casey Wilson as she rode her pink scooter, has been released early from prison after serving just two-and-a-half months.
Dwyer was originally sentenced to 14 months in prison but benefited from an early release scheme, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under a home detention curfew.
Casey’s mother, Rachel Bancroft, has publicly criticised the early release, calling it “absolutely disgusting” and expressing deep concern for her daughter’s wellbeing and safety.
She described how Dwyer “literally took my daughter out from under her feet” and said it was shocking to think he would now be free and walking around local parks where her children play.
The Incident and CCTV Evidence
Casey, five years old, was happily riding her scooter along the pavement near her school with her brother and mother when Dwyer’s car suddenly lost control and struck her.
CCTV footage captured the moment Dwyer overtook another vehicle, then veered uncontrollably across the road and collided with Casey.
After the crash, Dwyer shamefully drove away from the scene despite seeing the child he had hit.
Dwyer’s Confession and Court Response
He later confessed to Casey’s father that he had lost control after dropping a cigarette and voluntarily handed himself into the police.
Judge Simon Mills at Cardiff Crown Court condemned Dwyer’s actions, stating it was “miraculous” that Casey did not sustain more serious injuries.
The judge also criticised Dwyer for fleeing the scene, calling his behaviour cowardly, and lamented how Casey “should be playing with friends” instead of attending counselling sessions.
The Impact on Casey and Her Family
Since the incident, Casey has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and lives in constant fear of cars, road crossings, and traffic noises.
Her mother described how the once confident and happy child is now “glued to my hip constantly” and reacts with terror to everyday sounds like passing motorbikes.
Despite her physical recovery after being taken to hospital, Casey’s emotional scars remain deep and troubling for her family.
Early Release and Legal Consequences
Dwyer was banned from driving for three years and is now subject to strict licence conditions and electronic tagging under the home detention curfew scheme.
The Ministry of Justice has stated that those who violate the terms of their early release risk being returned to prison.
Mother’s Reaction and Call for Justice
Rachel Bancroft continues to voice her distress over the early release decision, questioning how the community can feel safe knowing the man who harmed her daughter is free.
She called the trauma inflicted on Casey “something I cannot put into words” and urged for greater consideration of victims in the justice process.
Broader Implications
The case highlights ongoing debates about the balance between rehabilitation and public safety in sentencing and early release policies.