A mother in Louisiana has turned her grief into action after her daughter was killed in a hit-and-run crash, leading to new legislation aimed at holding fleeing drivers accountable.
Holly Crow lost her 20-year-old daughter, Jody Mann, in March 2025 in Livingston Parish. Mann was struck while walking along the roadside and died after nearly a month in the hospital.
Jody’s Law Signed Into Effect
House Bill 806, commonly called “Jody’s Law,” was signed by Governor Jeff Landry on May 11 and will take effect on August 1.
The law introduces several key changes for hit-and-run cases:
- Judges must set bail for hit-and-run suspects instead of relying on preset amounts.
- A rapid alert system will release vehicle information to the public to aid in investigations.
- Penalties for drivers who flee the scene are increased.
The law comes after the driver accused of killing Mann, Brandon Chenevert, left the scene and was arrested days later, only to be released on bail shortly after.
Crow Advocates for Stronger Accountability
Crow said existing laws “reward fleeing” because drivers who leave the scene can evade certain charges, such as driving under the influence, making it difficult to hold them fully accountable.
Her advocacy included testifying before lawmakers and pushing for swift legislative action. Crow described the rapid release of her daughter’s alleged killer as a major motivator for reform.
Next Steps and Future Initiatives
Crow said Jody’s Law is only the first step. She is now advocating to raise the maximum sentence for hit-and-run incidents from 10 years to 20 years, emphasizing that fleeing the scene is an intentional act that puts victims at further risk.
She is also planning a program this fall to educate new drivers on how to respond if involved in an accident.
The case against Chenevert is ongoing, with a preliminary examination scheduled for the end of June.
Mann, who aspired to become a physical therapist and help athletes, is remembered for her compassion and concern for others—a legacy that drives Crow’s continued advocacy.
