Impaired driver in fatal collision gets five-year prison sentence

Published 11:43 am Friday, May 2, 2025

An impaired driver convicted in a head-on collision that killed a Jennings woman has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Judge Steve Gunnell of the 31st Judicial District Court ordered Jeffery Lynn Meche, 65, of Roanoke, to serve 10 years with the Louisiana Department of Corrections, with 5 years of that sentence suspended, according to District Attorney Lauren Heinen. The initial three years of the sentence are mandatory and must be served without the possibility of probation, parole, or suspension.

The collision occurred in September 2023, when Meche was driving north on LA 27 at the intersection of LA Highway 26 and Hillias Road, south of Jennings. His vehicle  crossed the centerline and collided head-on with another vehicle driven by 29-year-old Chelsey Benoit. Benoit sustained injuries in the crash and later died at a local hospital.

Toxicology reports confirmed that Meche was intoxicated at the time of the accident, leading to his arrest in December 2023 on a charge of vehicular homicide.

In a press release on Friday, Heinen commended the Louisiana State Police for their thorough investigation, which she noted was crucial in securing the conviction. Assistant District Attorney Burleigh Doga served as the prosecutor for the case.

“Sentencing is a critical aspect of our legal system, providing both punishment and a measure of justice for the victim’s family,” stated Heinen. “While nothing can undo the loss of Chelsey, this sentence underscores the gravity of driving under the influence and its devastating impact on innocent lives. We hope it offers some solace to her family and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving.”

Louisiana law defines vehicular homicide as the killing of a person directly caused by the operation of a vehicle while the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This crime carries a potential prison sentence ranging from 5 to 30 years, with a mandatory minimum of three years to be served without the possibility of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

Upon his release from prison, Meche will also be required to complete a substance abuse program and a driver improvement course.