Lucas Akins, a forward for Mansfield Town, has rejoined the team following his release from prison after serving a portion of his sentence for causing the death of a cyclist. Akins, 36, was sentenced to 14 months in prison in April 2025 for causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving in March 2022.
The incident occurred on March 17, 2022, when Akins, driving his Mercedes G-Wagon, collided with Adrian Daniel, 33, who was riding his bicycle on Huddersfield Road in Netherton. Akins was taking his daughter to a piano lesson at the time. The collision happened as Akins pulled out from the junction at Crosland Factory Lane. Daniel, a father from Meltham, West Yorkshire, was on his way home from work when the incident occurred. He suffered catastrophic head injuries and died in the hospital 10 days later.
Leeds Crown Court heard that Akins failed to stop at the give-way sign at the junction, a claim Akins initially disputed, stating he did not see Daniel approaching. The prosecution presented evidence from Daniel's headcam, which recorded the collision. Judge Alex Menary, while acknowledging strong personal mitigation, determined that only an immediate custodial sentence of 14 months was appropriate. Akins was also disqualified from driving for a year.
Mansfield Town released a statement on Thursday, October 9, 2025, confirming Akins' return to the League One club. The statement read, "Mansfield Town Football Club can confirm that it has retained the registration of forward Lucas Akins, who has re-joined the first team squad following the conclusion of a custodial sentence". The club also extended its "sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Adrian Daniel" and acknowledged the tragic impact of the accident.
The club emphasized its support for Akins, stating, "Mansfield Town has provided support to Lucas throughout his time in custody and following the conclusion of judicial proceedings and will continue to offer appropriate support as he returns to the first team environment". They further added, "In line with principles of rehabilitation and reintegration, the club is of the view that Lucas, having served his sentence, should be afforded the opportunity to resume his professional career". Akins has expressed "profound remorse" for his actions and recognizes the lasting impact on the Daniel family.
Prior to his sentencing, Akins continued to play for Mansfield Town after pleading guilty on March 4, prompting debate within the football community. Following his sentencing, the club stated they were "considering its position" regarding Akins' future. Akins has made over 150 appearances for Mansfield since joining in January 2022 from Burton Albion.
Savanna Daniel, Adrian's wife, provided a statement to the court, describing her late husband as an "adrenaline junkie" who cycled to work daily. While acknowledging Akins' young family, she criticized him for his delayed admission of guilt, which prolonged her "heartache and grief".
