Staged Crash Scheme Uncovered: Louisiana Truck Driver Among Three Arrested in $10 Million Insurance Fraud Case

In a disturbing case of deliberate endangerment and insurance fraud, Louisiana State Police (LSP) have arrested three individuals—including a commercial truck driver—following a multi-week investigation into a staged collision designed to defraud insurers of $10 million.

The arrests stem from a crash that occurred on January 19, 2025, at the intersection of Willow Street and Teurlings Drive in Lafayette Parish. According to the official LSP report, Justin Ledet, 45, of Rayne, was operating a commercial truck when he intentionally rear-ended a Chevrolet Silverado. Behind the wheel of the Silverado was Steven Thomas, 38, of Lafayette, accompanied by Alfred Onezine, 37, of Breaux Bridge, and three juvenile passengers.

Investigators determined the incident was no accident—it was a calculated setup.

The scheme came to light after a trucking company reported suspicious activity to the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI), prompting a formal investigation by LSP’s Insurance Fraud and Auto Theft Unit. Evidence revealed that the parties involved conspired to stage the crash and subsequently filed insurance claims totaling nearly $10 million for fabricated injuries and damages.

The arrests were carried out as follows:

• Justin Ledet and Steven Thomas were arrested on May 2, both charged with Automobile Insurance Fraud.

• Alfred Onezine was arrested on May 29 on three counts of Cruelty to Juveniles and four counts of Automobile Insurance Fraud. He also faces a charge of Resisting an Officer after failing to comply during his arrest.

Officials expressed outrage at the deliberate endangerment of children and the financial strain such fraud imposes on Louisiana’s already burdened insurance system.

“When individuals try to take advantage of a system that our residents rely on, it can put lives at risk and burden others with the cost,” said Colonel Robert Hodges, Superintendent of Louisiana State Police. “I’m proud of the work our Troopers did alongside the Louisiana Department of Insurance. We will continue working together to make sure those who commit these crimes are held accountable.”

Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple added, “At a time when Louisiana drivers are already paying the highest auto rates in the nation, these men put three children in harm’s way to try and make a quick buck. My thanks go out to the LDI Fraud team and LSP for their excellent work. We remain committed to pursuing insurance fraud aggressively.”

Safety Lane Commentary This case highlights a growing concern within the transportation industry: the exploitation of commercial carriers in fraudulent schemes. Staged accidents not only threaten public safety but also drive up insurance premiums for law-abiding drivers and companies. Trucking companies must remain vigilant, document all crash events thoroughly, and report suspicious activity immediately.

Fraudulent claims don’t just hurt insurers—they impact every premium payer on the road.

If you suspect insurance fraud or have been targeted in a staged accident scheme, contact your local law enforcement and insurance regulatory agency.

Reported by Safety Lane | A CellEx Media Group PublicationFor updates on trucking safety, compliance, and fraud prevention, visit www.safetylane.online