Mansfield Town have released a statement confirming that Lucas Akins has returned to the first team after his release from prison for a fatal cyclist crash in 2022.
Manfield Town have confirmed that Lucas Akins has rejoined the team following his release from prison. The 36-year-old was jailed in April for causing the death of a cyclist by careless or rash driving.
Mr Akins hit Adrian Daniel with his Mercedes in Huddersfield in March 2022. Daniel, 33, tragically died 10 days later. The veteran striker admitted the charges and was sentenced to 14 months in prison at Leeds Crown Court, with part of that sentence to be served on licence.
Akins continued to play for Mansfield last season after pleading guilty on March 4. Akins’ contract with the Stags expired at the end of last season, but the club announced that he plans to return to the team.
In a statement, the League One club said it believed Akins “should be given the opportunity to return to professional action in accordance with the principles of rehabilitation and reintegration” and expressed its condolences to Daniel’s family.
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A statement said: “Mansfield Town Football Club can confirm that it retains the registration of forward Lucas Akins, who has returned to the first-team squad following a custodial sentence. This follows the tragic death of Adrian Daniel in a road accident in March 2022.”
“The club would like to once again extend its deepest condolences to Daniel’s family and friends. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic accident.”
“In line with the principles of rehabilitation and reintegration, the club believes that Lucas should be given the opportunity to resume his professional career after completing his sentence.
“Mr. Lucas has reiterated his deep remorse for the events of that day and is fully aware of the lasting impact this tragedy has had on Mr. Daniel’s family.
“Mansfield Town has provided support to Lucas throughout his time in custody and beyond the conclusion of the judicial process, and will continue to provide him with appropriate support upon his return to a first-team environment.”
Akins was a Mansfield player at the time of the fatal accident three-and-a-half years ago and continued to play for the club during the trial. Daniel’s family criticized Akins for not pleading guilty at the earliest opportunity.
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