Former DeRidder mayor convicted on sex charges

Misty Roberts found guilty of indecent behavior and carnal knowledge with a juvenile

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Former DeRidder mayor Misty Roberts was found guilty on Tuesday of felony charges of indecent behavior with a juvenile and carnal knowledge of a juvenile following a six-day trial in the 36th Judicial District Court of Beauregard Parish. The six-person jury returned its verdicts after deliberating for just over an hour.

Why it matters

The conviction of a former mayor on serious sex charges involving a minor raises concerns about abuse of power and the need for accountability, especially among elected officials. It also highlights the trauma experienced by victims of such crimes and the importance of the justice system in addressing them.

The details

According to testimony, Roberts first flirted with the juvenile victim by the pool at her home as he and other juveniles, including Roberts' own son, drank alcohol throughout the night. Roberts then kissed the victim and they went upstairs, where the sexual encounter occurred. When Roberts' son and other juveniles witnessed the two having sex, Roberts tried to blame the victim.

  • The incident occurred on July 30, 2024.
  • The trial lasted six days and concluded on March 4, 2026.
  • Sentencing is scheduled for April 17, 2026.

The players

Misty Roberts

The former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, who was found guilty of indecent behavior with a juvenile and carnal knowledge of a juvenile.

Charles Robinson

The state prosecutor who opposed the judge's decision to allow Roberts to remain released on bond while awaiting sentencing.

D. Kent Savoie

The ad hoc judge presiding over the trial, who granted Roberts' request to remain released on bond while awaiting sentencing.

The victim

A juvenile who testified about the sexual encounter with Roberts, including how she first flirted with him and then tried to blame him for the incident.

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What they’re saying

“We were instructed not to draw any conclusions until the very end, but the evidence presented even early on was pretty indicative of her guilt, in my opinion. The points that stood out to me the most were the Plan B (emergency contraceptive Door Dash order) and the victim's testimony.”

— Alternate juror (American Press)

“This is lewd and lascivious in a photograph. This shows you everything you need to know about the case.”

— Charles Robinson, State prosecutor (Court proceedings)

What’s next

The judge is scheduled to sentence Misty Roberts on April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The conviction of a former mayor on serious sex charges involving a minor underscores the need for accountability and justice, especially among those in positions of power. It also highlights the trauma experienced by victims and the importance of the legal system in addressing such crimes.