Thomas Kerr convicted for driving disqualified after cyclist crash
A man who spent 18 months in prison after he crashed into seven cyclists with his SUV has narrowly avoided jail after he was caught driving disqualified, despite turning his life around.
St George Shire Standard
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A tattooed muscle man who reinvented himself as a wellness expert after two years in prison for running down several cyclists has narrowly avoided jail again after he was caught driving disqualified.
Thomas Kerr, 33, was jailed for 18 months in August 2015 after he crashed his SUV into seven members of the Eastern Suburbs Cycling Club on Southern Cross Dr in Eastlakes in March 2014.
The Peakhurst man has since turned his life around, opening an up-market cryotherapy and sports recovery centre in Caringbah alongside NSW State of Origin player Damien Cook.
However, he will now serve a nine-month prison sentence in the community and perform 100 hours’ community service after he was caught driving disqualified in Caringbah on August 5.
“During his time in custody he believed his disqualification had commenced,” his solicitor told the court.
“He did not realise it was put on hold until his release and unfortunately believed it had finished.”
Kerr’s driving disqualification was due to expire on November 19 two years after his release from prison.
Magistrate Michael Connell imposed an additional one-year disqualification at Sutherland Local Court on Thursday.
“The offender has written a letter to the court expressing his remorse,” Mr Connell said.
“The offender has endeavoured to turn his life around but the safety of the community is the paramount consideration.”
Kerr served 18 months of a 27-month sentence after he pleaded guilty to four counts of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm and three counts of causing bodily harm by misconduct with a motor vehicle pertaining to the crash with the cyclists.
Some of the victims were left with permanent physical and psychological injuries and several suffered serious spinal injuries.
At the time, Kerr said his heart went out to each of the victims.
“I will forever carry this burden,” Kerr said.
Kerr and Mr Cook opened La Cure health and wellness centre in Caringbah in June this year after Mr Cook discovered the healing effects of magnesium salt tanks.
The sensory deprivation tanks, also known as float tanks, allow clients to soak in water and Epsom salts to revive tired muscles and take a moment to mentally unplug.
The cryotherapy tanks at -85 degrees are a modern take on the traditional ice bath.