Lake Charles, Louisiana - The Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office announced on January 30th that Kayla S. Gaugh, a 33-year-old resident of Iowa, Louisiana, has been found guilty of operating a vehicle while intoxicated for the fourth time. This conviction highlights the ongoing issue of driving under the influence, which poses significant risks to public safety.
An update to this story has been published.
The incident occurred in 2021 when Gaugh was observed driving at a high rate of speed, crossing the center line multiple times. Law enforcement officials conducted a field sobriety test, which Gaugh failed. Additionally, her Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level was determined to be above the legal limit, confirming her impaired state while operating the vehicle.
District Attorney Stephen Dwight condemned Gaugh's actions, stating, "Driving under the influence is a reckless and dangerous crime that puts innocent lives at risk. Our office takes DWI/DUI offenses very seriously and will prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law." He emphasized that there are no justifications for endangering the public, reinforcing the commitment of the District Attorney's Office to hold impaired drivers accountable.
Following her conviction, Gaugh was taken into custody and is scheduled for a sentencing hearing on February 4, 2025, before Judge Michael Canaday. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Conrad Huber and Sydney Mayeaux, who represented the interests of the state in this matter.