Former Olympic cyclist Rohan Dennis has urged the media to relinquish their scrutiny following his wife Melissa Hoskins’ tragic death, accusing journalists of creating a misleading narrative around the incident. Dennis, aged 35, was sentenced to a suspended prison term in May 2023 after Hoskins was struck by his vehicle in December 2022, near their home in Medindie, Adelaide.
In a recent Instagram post, Dennis defended himself against accusations of abuse, asserting his deep love for Melissa and stating, “The last thing I ever wanted was to hurt her.” He vehemently denied any form of physical aggression, stressing that the media aimed to portray him as an abusive husband. He expressed concern over how journalists have treated his family since the tragedy, highlighting inappropriate questions directed at him by reporters immediately after Hoskins’ death, including insinuations about his guilt.
Dennis remarked on the distress caused to his children by invasive media behaviour, with journalists allegedly making “disgusting” comments in their presence. He lamented that while the media professes concern for his children, the relentless harassment they endure contradicts that sentiment.
Further defending his actions, Dennis stated that he never used his vehicle as a weapon, noting that the accident footage supports his claim. He remarked on how his statements had been misrepresented, and reiterated that he was not legally deemed responsible for his wife’s death, having only pleaded guilty to an aggravated act likely to cause harm.
In the ongoing aftermath of the incident, Victims’ Rights Commissioner Sarah Quick expressed that Dennis’ social media posts regarding his car were “deeply offensive” and disrespected Melissa and her family. Ultimately, Dennis received a 17-month suspended prison sentence, alongside a two-year good behaviour bond and a driving ban.
During court proceedings, Hoskins’ mother acknowledged her daughter’s affection for Dennis and described the situation as a tragic accident, while calling for him to address his temper. Throughout his cycling career, Dennis garnered considerable accolades, including two world titles in the road time trial and multiple Olympic medals.
In closing, Dennis made a heartfelt plea to the media, asking them to leave his family in peace during this difficult time.