DERIDDER, LA – Former Mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, Misty Roberts, faces charges for third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, as announced by the Louisiana State Police on Thursday. The investigation against the 42-year-old former mayor began on July 26, following a request from the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office for the state police to look into a complaint against her.
The inquiry found that during her tenure as mayor, Roberts had sexual intercourse with a minor. Two juveniles have confirmed the allegations. The issuing of a warrant for Roberts’ arrest led to her surrender on Wednesday. She was subsequently booked into the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office Jail and released an hour later on a $75,000 bond.
While proclaiming her innocence, Roberts’ attorney criticized the police for not interviewing her before her arrest.
The allegations follow Roberts’ unexpected two-week leave of absence and subsequent resignation from office on July 26, the same day the police started their investigation. Her resignation letter cited the need to adjust her focus and priorities.
Until an official election on March 29, 2025, City Council President Randy Larken will serve as the city’s mayor pro tem once the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office finalizes the resignation.