Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts was sentenced to 90 days in jail for having sex with a 16-year-old boy, a decision that has sparked outrage among local residents.
Why it matters: The sentencing of Roberts, who was convicted of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile, raises serious concerns about justice for victims of sexual crimes, especially when the perpetrator holds a position of authority.
- Roberts, 44, was sentenced on June 9, 2026, after being convicted in March 2026, facing a maximum of 17 years in prison.
- Judge Kent Savoie imposed a 90-day jail term, a five-year suspended sentence, and five years of probation.
- Roberts must pay a $5,000 fine, undergo psychological treatment, abstain from alcohol, and submit to random drug screenings.
- Community members expressed disappointment, labeling the sentence a "slap on the wrist" for a serious crime.
Driving the news: The case against Roberts stems from an incident during a party in July 2024, where she was accused of having sex with a teenage friend of her son. The victim's family provided powerful impact statements during the sentencing, detailing the emotional toll the incident has taken on them.
- The victim's mother described the night as a simple birthday celebration that turned tragic, referring to Roberts as "a predator with hair extensions, high heels, Botox, and fake eyelashes."
- She emphasized the long-term effects on her son, including panic attacks and social ostracism, stating, "Half of his high school experience was taken from him."
- Four victim impact statements were presented, highlighting the emotional and psychological struggles faced by the family.
State of play: Roberts was convicted of two felony charges, yet her sentence has drawn criticism for being disproportionately light compared to the severity of her actions.
- Prosecutors sought the maximum sentences of ten and seven years for the respective charges, arguing that anything less would undermine the seriousness of the crime.
- The defense argued for a suspended sentence, claiming Roberts was not a predator and emphasizing her low risk of reoffending according to a psychologist's testimony.
- Judge Savoie noted that Roberts did not fully accept responsibility for her actions and had minimized her involvement.
The big picture: The community's reaction reflects broader concerns about accountability for public officials who commit crimes, particularly those involving minors.
- DeRidder residents are worried that such leniency could discourage future victims from coming forward, fearing they won't receive justice.
- Kari McGee, a local resident, stated, "We tell people, hey, come forward if you’re a child victim of abuse. Then this is what happens when they do."
- The case has reignited discussions about the treatment of sexual offenses involving authority figures and the legal system's response.
What they're saying: Reactions from both the community and legal representatives highlight the divide in perceptions of justice served in this case.
- Beauregard Parish District Attorney James R. Lestage expressed disappointment, stating, "I don’t think the sentence that was imposed reflects the severity of the crimes."
- Roberts' defense attorneys praised Judge Savoie for his thorough review of the evidence, claiming the sentence could have been much harsher.
- After the sentencing, Roberts declined to post a $150,000 appeal bond, choosing to serve her time immediately instead.
By the numbers: The details of Roberts' case reveal the stark realities of legal consequences for sexual crimes.
- Roberts faces a 90-day jail sentence, a five-year suspended sentence, and five years of probation.
- She must register as a sex offender and comply with strict conditions, including random drug screenings.
- The maximum sentence she could have faced was 17 years in prison for her crimes.
Between the lines: The case raises questions about the effectiveness of the legal system in handling sexual offenses, particularly when committed by individuals in positions of power.
- Critics argue that the justice system often fails to deliver appropriate consequences for those who exploit their authority.
- The leniency shown in Roberts' sentencing may set a troubling precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances.
What's next: As Roberts serves her 90-day sentence, the community will likely continue to grapple with the implications of her conviction.
- Roberts’ attorneys have indicated plans to appeal the conviction, though the specifics of that process remain unclear.
- The case is expected to remain a point of contention in DeRidder, as residents seek to address the broader issues of accountability and justice.
- The outcome of the appeal could potentially influence future legal standards for public officials involved in similar crimes.
Roberts expressed remorse during her sentencing, stating, "I blame myself then, I blame myself today, and I will blame myself for the rest of my life." She acknowledged the pain her actions caused but also faced scrutiny for not directly addressing the victim by name during her remarks.