‘CHOICES’ message impacts RHS students

The accident scene was staged, but the emotions were real as the 4th installation of CHOICES unfolded in Rayne last week.
The results of impaired and distracted driving were illustrated in a mock four-vehicle crash at the corner of East Edwards and Northeastern involving a total of 16 Acadia Parish students. One teen died at the scene, a second was airlifted and died at the hospital and three were transported to Acadia General Hospital with moderate injuries.
One driver was arrested for texting while driving and found guilty before Judge Kristian Earles. The second driver was arrested for driving impaired and appeared before Judge Michelle Breaux and was found guilty.
“This was the most emotional year,” said Coordinator Maxine Trahan, public information officer for the Sheriff’s Department, who admitted she cried during the experience.
“All the people were so involved and understood what we wanted to do,” she remarked. “The speakers were awesome and the kids learned a lot from them.
“It was an amazing week,” commented Trahan, as she reflected on the students’ reactions.
A total of 130 Acadia Parish high school students took part in this year’s CHOICES.
This year’s video was aired at high schools in Rayne, Crowley, Iota, Midland and Church Point. It was dedicated to the memory of Claire LeJeune, who was killed in an accident last year.
The video will be aired on May 28 over KLFY-TV10 following the 6 p.m. newscast.
The completed video will be ready April 15 and can be ordered for $20 each by calling Maxine Trahan at the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Department.