Former DeRidder Mayor Gets 90 Days After Conviction Involving 16-Year-Old Boy

Former DeRidder Mayor Gets 90 Days After Conviction Involving 16-Year-Old Boy

Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts was sentenced Tuesday to 90 days in jail following her conviction in a case involving a 16-year-old boy.

The sentence comes months after a jury found Roberts guilty of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Prosecutors had sought a significantly longer prison sentence, arguing the facts of the case warranted the maximum punishment allowed under the law.

The case drew statewide attention after allegations surfaced that Roberts engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a teenage boy who was a friend of her son. The investigation ultimately led to criminal charges and her resignation from office.

During the trial, jurors heard testimony from numerous witnesses and reviewed evidence presented by prosecutors. After deliberating for less than an hour, the jury returned guilty verdicts on both felony counts.

In addition to the 90-day jail sentence, Roberts was ordered to register as a sex offender and comply with several court-imposed conditions. She also received suspended sentences that could be imposed if she violates the terms of her supervision.

At Tuesday’s sentencing hearing, Roberts addressed the court and expressed remorse. Members of the victim’s family also spoke, describing the lasting impact the case has had on their lives and calling for a harsher punishment.

The sentence immediately generated debate, with critics arguing that 90 days behind bars is too lenient given the convictions. Others pointed to the long-term consequences of felony convictions and sex offender registration requirements.

Once known as DeRidder’s first female mayor, Roberts’ conviction and sentencing mark a dramatic fall from public office and bring one of Louisiana’s most closely watched criminal cases to a close.

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