Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts Convicted in Shocking Juvenile Sex Case: Swift Jury Verdict Ends High-Profile Trial

By Crime & Courts Reporter DeRidder, Louisiana, March 4, 2026 — In a stunning turn that has rocked the small community of DeRidder, former Mayor Misty Roberts, 43, was found guilty Tuesday on two felony charges: carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. The Beauregard Parish jury deliberated for less than an hour after a week-long trial that exposed graphic details of an alleged 2024 house party incident while Roberts held office.

The case stemmed from a July 2024 gathering at Roberts’ home, described by witnesses as alcohol-fueled with teens present, including her own son and daughter. Prosecutors alleged Roberts engaged in sexual activity with her teenage son’s 16-year-old best friend, with multiple eyewitnesses—including her children—claiming to have seen or confronted the act in an upstairs room. The victim’s mother testified her son was left “disgusted” afterward, while a DoorDash driver confirmed delivering emergency contraception (Plan B) to the residence shortly after the alleged encounter.

Key evidence included text messages where Roberts reportedly assured the victim’s mother she was on birth control, a “lewd” photo from the party showing Roberts in a bikini pressing against the teen, and recorded interviews where her son described walking in on his mother having sex with his friend. Roberts’ ex-husband, Duncan Clanton, testified she confessed directly to him about the incident, expressing fear it would “blow up.”

kplctv.com

Misty Roberts found guilty of having sex with teen while serving as DeRidder mayor

Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts leaves the Beauregard Parish Courthouse after her guilty verdict on March 3, 2026. The 43-year-old walked out free on bond pending sentencing. (Photo: KPLC / Gray News)

Roberts resigned as mayor in late July 2024, days before her initial arrest. The trial faced delays, including a mistrial earlier in 2026 due to indictment issues tied to judicial recusals. She pleaded not guilty, with defense attorneys arguing the case relied on unreliable teen accounts, rumors, and lacked proper evidence handling. However, the prosecution’s presentation—bolstered by teen testimonies, digital records, and the victim’s emotional account—proved overwhelming.

Carnal knowledge of a juvenile carries up to 10 years in prison, while indecent behavior with a juvenile is punishable by up to seven years. As a convicted sex offender, Roberts must register for life. Sentencing is scheduled for April 17, 2026, before Judge Kent Savoie in the 36th Judicial District Court. She remains free on bond until then.

The verdict has reverberated through DeRidder, a town of about 10,000 where Roberts was once a visible leader. Community members expressed shock at the abuse of trust, with some calling it a profound betrayal by a public official who provided alcohol to minors and exploited a vulnerable teen.

kalb.com

Former DeRidder mayor Misty Roberts Clanton indicted on sex charge

Misty Roberts in her booking photo following an earlier arrest in the case. The former mayor’s glamorous public image contrasted sharply with trial revelations. (Photo: Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office / KALB)

Prosecutor Charles Robinson emphasized the power imbalance: Roberts hosted the party as mayor, supplied alcohol, and allegedly preyed on a intoxicated minor. Witnesses described flirtatious poolside behavior before the pair moved upstairs. One teen testified to seeing them “on top of each other,” while others recounted post-incident confrontations and attempts to downplay events.

The trial included emotional moments, such as the victim’s mother’s testimony and cross-examinations grilling investigators on evidence protocols. Despite defense efforts to cast doubt, the six-person jury convicted on both counts swiftly.

This case highlights Louisiana’s strict protections for juveniles under 17, where consent is irrelevant in such scenarios. It also underscores accountability for elected officials, with local leaders urging reflection on trust in positions of authority.

theadvocate.com

Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts found guilty in sex case | Lake Charles News | theadvocate.com

The historic Beauregard Parish Courthouse in DeRidder, where the trial unfolded and the guilty verdict was delivered after brief deliberations. The landmark building has been the site of many community-defining cases. (Photo: The Advocate / NOLA.com)

For the victim and family, the conviction offers partial closure amid enduring trauma. Resources for survivors are available through state agencies. Roberts’ fall from mayor to convicted felon serves as a cautionary tale: no one is above the law, especially those in leadership.

As DeRidder moves forward, questions linger about the long-term impact on local politics and youth safety. The once-prominent figure now faces years behind bars and a lifetime of registration requirements.

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en.wikipedia.org

Beauregard Parish Courthouse – Wikipedia

The grand Beauregard Parish Courthouse stands as a symbol of justice in DeRidder, where Misty Roberts’ fate was sealed in a courtroom drama that gripped the region. (Photo: Wikipedia / Public domain)