Former Olympic Cyclist Criticized for “Deeply Offensive” Post Following Wife’s Passing

A prominent advocate for victims’ rights has criticized a “profoundly inappropriate” social media post by ex-Olympic cyclist Rohan Dennis, following his avoidance of incarceration for the incident that led to his wife’s death.

Last May, Dennis, aged 35, received a suspended sentence after the tragic demise of his wife, Melissa Hoskins, 32. She was fatally injured when struck by his car near their residence in Medindie, a suburb in Adelaide’s northern area, on December 30, 2023.

Hoskins, who was also an Olympic cyclist, sustained critical injuries and later succumbed at Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Last night, Dennis took to Instagram to post a photo of his Porsche, a different vehicle from the one involved in the accident, captioning it “what an absolute weapon.”

Sarah Quick, the Victims’ Rights Commissioner, expressed that the caption was particularly insensitive, considering the tragic events.

“This is a deeply offensive comment that demonstrates a clear lack of insight into the real and lasting impact of the harm he has caused,” Quick said in a statement.

“It also reflects a profound lack of respect for Melissa and her family, who continue to live with the consequences of that harm every day.”

The ex-professional cyclist went on to post a second image to his Instagram of his children with a similar caption which read: “Two absolute weapons.”

Nine.com.au has contacted Dennis for comment.

Dennis pleaded guilty to committing an aggravated act likely to cause harm but he was not being held criminally responsible for his wife’s death.

He was given a 17-month suspended prison term with a two-year good behaviour bond and was suspended from driving for two years.

During sentencing submissions in the SA District Court last year, Hoskins’ mother Amanda said her daughter had loved Dennis and “and I know that you would never intentionally hurt her”.

“I believe this is a tragic accident. Your temper is your downfall and needs to be addressed,” she said.

During his competitive career, Dennis won two world titles in the road time trial, as well as silver in the team pursuit at the 2012 Olympics and bronze in the road time trial at the Tokyo Olympics.

National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

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