Michelin-Star Chef Avoids Jail After Running Over Intern & Amputating Legs

Antwerp, Belgium – Michelin-starred chef Nick Bril has avoided jail time despite being convicted of negligently withholding information and leaving the scene after running over his British intern, Joe Claridge, twice with his Land Rover Defender in January 2024. The incident, which occurred in the parking lot of Bril’s two-star restaurant, The Jane, left Claridge with life-altering injuries, including the loss of both legs.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the court in Antwerp acquitted Bril of directly running over Claridge, stating they could not determine he “could have foreseen the accident and did not intend the consequences.” However, Bril was found guilty of failing to assist Claridge and withholding information from investigators. He received a 12-month suspended prison sentence, according to reporting from AD.

The court heard that after a staff party, Bril drove his Land Rover and twice struck Claridge, who was lying on the ground. Claridge sustained life-threatening injuries. The judge noted that Bril “was seriously at fault due to his involvement, and by failing to provide necessary assistance.” The court also stated it was “manifestly implausible that he was unaware that he had run over Claridge.”

Crucially, Bril did not immediately call emergency services. Instead, he waited 10 minutes before alerting authorities, a delay the court deemed “irresponsible.” A passing jogger ultimately raised the alarm after discovering Bril standing near the injured intern.

Intern Suffered Life-Changing Injuries

Joe Claridge suffered devastating injuries as a result of the incident, ultimately losing both of his legs. The court acknowledged the severity of Claridge’s injuries but focused its conviction on Bril’s subsequent actions – or lack thereof – following the accident.

Chef’s Actions Questioned

The prosecution argued that Bril should have immediately provided assistance and been transparent with police. The court agreed, finding that his failure to do so constituted a serious offense. While the court accepted Bril’s claim that he did not see Claridge, particularly as the intern was wearing dark clothing, they emphasized his obligation to help once the incident occurred.

As reported by The Telegraph, Bril has avoided jail despite the severity of the incident. The Sun also reported on the outcome, highlighting the life-changing injuries sustained by Claridge.

The case has drawn significant attention, raising questions about the responsibilities of individuals in positions of power and the importance of immediate action following an accident. The suspended sentence means Bril will not serve time in prison unless he commits another offense.