Former Mayor Sentenced for Sexual Assault of Minor
Misty Roberts, 44, a former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 90 days in jail after being convicted of raping a 16-year-old boy. The sentencing occurred on Tuesday following her earlier conviction on two felony charges, including carnal knowledge of a juvenile (statutory rape) and indecent behavior with a juvenile.
Roberts, who had served as mayor since 2018, faced a potential prison term of up to 17 years. The offenses took place in July 2024 during a pool party where alcohol was consumed. The victim was underage at the time of the assault.
Sentencing Details and Legal Consequences
In addition to the 90-day jail sentence, Roberts is required to register as a sex offender and pay $5,000 in fines. She will also be subject to regular drug screenings and must undergo psychotropic and psychological therapy following her release, according to KPLC. Furthermore, Roberts received two five-year suspended sentences, which will be served concurrently unless she violates parole conditions.
Statements from Roberts and Victim’s Family
During the sentencing hearing, Roberts addressed the court, expressing remorse for her actions.
“I blame myself then, I blame myself today, and I will blame myself for the rest of my life … I let a lot of people down, and I am the only person responsible for that,”
She also spoke directly to the victim’s family:
“To the [victim’s] family, I am sorry. I can’t give back the high school days… I can’t take away the embarrassment that so many mean people on the internet have put them through.”
In an impact statement delivered in court, the victim’s mother described the nature of the predator and the emotional toll on her son.
“This predator was not hiding in a van carrying candy or a puppy. This danger came from a predator with hair extensions, high heels, Botox, and other modifications.”
“Every social event carried questions no teenager should have to ask … Half of his high school experience was taken from him,”
She also recounted finding her son alone and hearing him cry at night.
She concluded by addressing Roberts directly:
“Stay the hell away from my family.”
