The former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, Misty Roberts, made a somber appearance in court on Tuesday, seemingly disregarding reporters’ attempts to engage her. She’s facing the consequences of being convicted for having inappropriate sexual relations with her son’s 16-year-old friend at a drunken pool party.
Entering the Beauregard Parish Criminal Courthouse, Roberts maintained a downcast demeanor, seemingly lost in thought as she walked in. She was found guilty of sexual knowledge of a juvenile and other related charges stemming from a party that took place in July 2024, which was intended to celebrate her son’s birthday.
Witnesses reported that Roberts, who wore a provocative orange bikini at the gathering, openly flirted with the boy. Court documents reveal that she later lured him into a separate room in her house where, after undressing him, they engaged in sexual activity.
Notably, her son testified about seeing the act through a window, while her daughter also mentioned witnessing something inappropriate between her mother and the young victim.
During the trial, the victim shared that she was intoxicated during the incident, adding a complex layer to the already troubling case. A family friend, who had been close to Roberts, disclosed how her son had been asked to intervene in the chaotic situation, even hearing his mother claim she had upset her “best friend” following the incident.
In a striking moment, a local DoorDash driver recounted delivering emergency contraception to Roberts’ residence. Text messages between the victim’s mother and Roberts also surfaced in court, revealing the mother’s urgent inquiries about the potential for pregnancy.
“Out of respect for both of our families, can you please confirm that you will not become pregnant?” the victim’s mother asked. Roberts responded affirmatively.
Further probing from the mother about whether Roberts was on birth control brought a troubling reply. Though she claimed to have used contraception, she suggested that the encounter did not warrant the kind of concern being raised.
Days before her arrest in 2024, Roberts stepped down from her mayoral role in DeRidder, which has a population nearing 10,000. Initially facing rape charges, she was later convicted and ordered to register as a first-degree sex offender, the lowest risk tier.
