Lisa Rabalais sentenced to 5 years in prison

Lisa Rabalais, the woman found guilty by an Avoyelles Parish jury in September of accessory after the fact of second-degree murder in connection to the death of Ray Paul Lachney, was sentenced Tuesday by Judge Billy Bennett to the maximum five years in prison, with the chance to post a $100,000 bond.

Lachney's mother, Debbie Lott, gave a short, but impactful statement before a sentencing was announced saying, in part, "I will never be the same."

Judge Bennett followed, pointing out the fact that Rabalais has managed to escape punishment despite her lengthy criminal history.

But many are wondering why Rabalais was allowed a bond when she was given a five-year sentence. Avoyelles Parish District Attorney Charles Riddle explained to News Channel 5 why that’s the case.

"The law is clear...that if the maximum sentence is five years or less, they are entitled to bond,” said Riddle. “And our law states they shall be entitled to bond. So, the judge posted a separate $100,000 bond, which has to be posted by her to get out of jail…”

Lachney's remains were found in 2016 on T-Doos Road in Mansura. According to the Avoyelles Parish District Attorney's Office, Lachney and Rabalais were hanging out earlier in the day on the last day he was seen. The DA's Office said no specific manner of death has been determined from the autopsy.

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