Misty Roberts, ex-Louisiana mayor, avoids major sentence over indecent behaviour with teenager

A former Louisiana mayor has been sentenced to 90 days in jail after being convicted of sex offences involving a 16-year-old boy at a house party while serving in office.

Misty Roberts, 44, the former mayor of DeRidder, was convicted in March of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behaviour with a juvenile, both felony offences.

The court also ordered Roberts to register as a sexual offender, pay a $5,000 fine and undergo regular drug testing and psychological therapy after her release.

According to court proceedings, Roberts received two suspended five-year sentences, which will run concurrently unless she violates parole conditions.

During sentencing, emotional victim impact statements were read in court. Holly Jones, speaking on behalf of her family, told the court: “At only 14 years old, our son was planted in the middle of an adult criminal case.”

The victim’s mother described the lasting impact of the incident and criticised Roberts’ legal team during her statement.

“This predator was not hiding in a van carrying candy or a puppy. This danger came from a predator with hair extensions, high heels, Botox, and other modifications,” she told the court.

Roberts’ lawyers had recently requested a new trial, citing alleged inconsistencies in testimony, but Judge Kent Savoie rejected the motion earlier this month.

The case drew significant public attention in Louisiana because Roberts was serving as an elected official at the time of the offences.