Misty Roberts, former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 9 or 10, 2026, to 90 days in jail for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy at her home during a party in July 2024 [1, 2]. She was convicted of statutory rape and indecent behavior with a juvenile in March 2026 after evidence showed she sexually assaulted the boy while facilitating alcohol at the event, which was witnessed by family members [2].

In addition to the jail term, Roberts received two concurrent five-year suspended sentences, was fined $5,000, ordered to register as a sex offender, and must undergo therapy and drug testing upon release [1, 2]. Prosecutors had sought a maximum 17-year prison term, arguing Roberts failed to fully accept responsibility [2].

Roberts, who was either 43 or 44 years old at sentencing, apologized in court, expressing remorse to the victim’s family. She said, "I blame myself then, I blame myself today, and I will blame myself for the rest of my life … I let a lot of people down, and I am the only person responsible for that." She added, "To the [victim’s] family, I am sorry. I can’t give back the high school days… I can’t take away the embarrassment that so many mean people on the internet have put them through." [1]

The victim’s mother described Roberts as a predator who preyed on a child entrusted to her care, saying, "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." [1] The mother emphasized that danger does not always look like danger [2].

Prosecutor Charles Robinson said, "This is not a dumb lady. This is somebody who managed an entire city budget. Roberts has not come to the realization of accountability." [2]

The assault occurred at a pool and birthday party hosted by Roberts in July 2024 [1, 2]. The case led to Roberts’ conviction for carnal knowledge and indecent behavior with a juvenile in March 2026 [2].

Roberts must comply with court requirements for registration, therapy, and drug testing following her jail term [1, 2].