Chris Soules’ Defense Plans to Seek Dismissal in Fatal Car Accident Case
Bachelor alum Chris Soules was arrested in connection with a deadly car crash in April. At the time, he was charged with allegedly leaving the scene of a fatal accident, though Soules and his lawyers argued that he did not flee the scene and in fact tried to help the victim, identified as Kenneth Mosher. This week, he appeared in court for the pre-trial hearing, where his attorneys said they plan to seek a dismissal in the case against him.
According to the Associated Press, Soules’ defense team said they would formally argue for a dismissal during a hearing in early October. “We needed the state to clarify how they were going to prosecute Chris for leaving the scene,” said Brandon Brown of Parrish Kruidenier Law Firm in Des Moines, per USA Today. “We have a motion to dismiss forthcoming.”
At the time of his arrest, reports claimed that Soules left the scene of the accident and was later found at his home, where he allegedly refused to come outside until sheriff’s deputies eventually showed up with a search warrant.
Soules disputed the claims in a statement through his lawyers, saying he “contacted law enforcement immediately” and “attempted to resuscitate [the victim].” The statement also said he remained on the scene until emergency medical personnel arrived. “His attorneys are confident that once all the evidence is made public, it will show Soules acted reasonably and did everything in his power to provide aid to Mr. Mosher,” the statement read.
The reality TV alum appeared alongside his lawyers at the hearing on Thursday but did not speak, according to local NBC Iowa affiliate KWWL.
Soules starred in season 19 of The Bachelor after becoming a fan-favorite during his time on Andi Dorfman’s season of The Bachelorette. If convicted of the current charge, he could face up to five years in prison. His attorneys will formally argue for the dismissal of his charges on October 10.
(Photo via Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Friends of Hudson River Park)