Former Louisiana Mayor Registers As Sex Offender

Misty Roberts faces consequences after conviction for sexual misconduct with a minor

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Misty Roberts, the former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, has registered as a sex offender after being convicted of two felonies - carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior of a juvenile. The charges stemmed from an incident at a pool party where Roberts was accused of having drunken sex with her teenage son's 16-year-old friend, which was witnessed by her own daughter.

Why it matters

The case highlights the abuse of power and betrayal of public trust when an elected official engages in sexual misconduct with a minor. It also raises concerns about the broader issue of adults in positions of authority exploiting young people.

The details

During the two-week trial, prosecutors presented evidence including text messages between Roberts and her son, where he warned her the victim was 17 but was actually 16. Roberts' daughter also testified that she saw her mother and the victim "on top of each other" at the party. After the encounter, the victim's mother texted Roberts asking if she was pregnant, and Roberts replied she was on birth control but later ordered emergency contraception.

  • On Tuesday, Roberts was convicted of the two felonies and ordered to register as a sex offender.
  • Roberts will be sentenced on April 17.

The players

Misty Roberts

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

Misty Roberts' son

Warned his mother that the victim was 17, but he was actually 16.

Misty Roberts' daughter

Testified that she saw her mother and the victim "on top of each other" at the party.

Victim's mother

Texted Roberts asking if she was pregnant after the sexual encounter.

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What they’re saying

“In one message, the son warned his mom the victim was 17, but he was really 16.”

— Misty Roberts' son (TMZ)

“In other texts, the son called the ordeal "crazy" and told Roberts her daughter was upset.”

— Misty Roberts' son (TMZ)

“Roberts' daughter testified she saw her mom and the victim "on top of each other" at the party.”

— Misty Roberts' daughter (TMZ)

What’s next

Roberts will be sentenced on April 17.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences for public officials who abuse their power and betray the trust of the community by engaging in sexual misconduct with minors. It serves as a warning that such behavior will not be tolerated, and those in positions of authority will be held accountable for their actions.