THE MAN who killed three Louisiana college students in a drunk driving accident back in 2021 has been sentenced to 85 years in prison.

Joey Paul Clement, 40, was found guilty of two counts of vehicular homicide and one count of criminal negligence for the deadly crash.

Clement had four previous offenses for driving under the influence, but the defense shockingly blamed the girls for the tragic accident.

The students, who were best friends, were celebrating a birthday when their SVU collided with Clement’s Ford F 150.

Clement was driving at least 90 MPH.

“If that Mazda didn’t cross that center line, this accident never happens,” Public Defenders George Ledet said in his closing argument.

“I don’t care if Joey Clement was on every drug known to man,” he added.

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Jurors were provided with compelling evidence from the prosecution that showed Clement’s blood alcohol level to be three times the legal limit. He had also taken Adderall and Zoloft before driving.

Evidence of the horrific crash remains at the scene today.

The wreck happened on a state highway, and jurors were shown gouges in the asphalt left from the impact of the collision.

A memorial for the girls is placed just to the side of the road, with a posted warning “Don’t drink and drive.”

After six hours of deliberation, the six-person jury determined Clement’s blood alcohol level was at 0.15.

Clement was found him guilty of killing 19-year-old Lily Dufrene, 18-year-old Hali Cross, and 18-year-old Michaila Bowling in the DUI crash.

Grieving family members were pleased as the guilty verdict was read out, but said that nothing will take away their pain.

Those close to the victims told outlet WDSU 6 that they are hopeful that the sentence will make drivers think twice before getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.

“To me it was premeditated murder, times three. His weapon was his truck and the speed of 93 or more. And he killed three girls, and he destroyed all these lives,” said Rose Coob, the aunt of Michalia Bowling.

Clement stared blankly as family and friends read emotional impact statements in court.