Convicted Louisiana mayor sought to ban teen romance rumors from rape trial

Court docs reveal Misty Roberts fought to keep details about her marriage, rehab, and video evidence from being presented

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Disturbing rumors of ex-Louisiana mayor Misty Roberts having illicit relationships with teenage boys and stints in rehab had already dogged the disgraced leader before she landed in court for bedding her son's 16-year-old friend, according to court records. Roberts' lawyers fought to ban this information and other details, including video evidence, from being presented at her trial, where she was swiftly found guilty of having sex with the teen.

Why it matters

This case highlights the lengths that some public officials may go to cover up alleged misconduct, even when facing serious criminal charges. The attempts to suppress information about Roberts' past behavior and personal life raise questions about transparency and accountability in local government.

The details

According to court documents, Roberts' lawyers filed a motion seeking to block "any testimony concerning rumors or suggestions of inappropriate behavior" between the ex-mayor and members of the local high school baseball team. They also tried to ban any evidence related to Roberts' former marriage, divorce, and potential rehab stints. Prosecutors say Roberts, who was drinking heavily at a pool party for her son's birthday, lured the 16-year-old boy to a "bonus room" and had sex with him. Roberts' own son and nephew allegedly filmed the incident, but her lawyers fought to keep that video from being shown in court.

  • In July 2024, Roberts was caught having sex with her son's 16-year-old best friend at a pool party.
  • On May 9, Roberts' attorneys filed a motion seeking to ban certain evidence from her trial.
  • On March 4, 2026, Roberts was found guilty on charges of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile.

The players

Misty Roberts

The former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana who was convicted of having sex with her son's 16-year-old friend.

Duncan Clanton

Roberts' former husband, to whom she reportedly sent incriminating texts following the pool party incident.

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What they’re saying

“I f—ked up”

— Misty Roberts (Court documents)

What’s next

Roberts is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2026. The judge will determine the length of her prison term.

The takeaway

This case highlights the troubling lengths that some public officials may go to cover up alleged misconduct, even when facing serious criminal charges. It raises important questions about transparency, accountability, and the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse of power.