The former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, has been apprehended and charged with the egregious offense of juvenile rape.
Misty Dawn Clanton Roberts, 42, was processed at the Beauregard Parish Detention Center, facing allegations of third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of minors, according to a Louisiana State Police (LSP) release on Thursday.
Her detainment transpired less than a week following her sudden resignation as the mayor of DeRidder, a town with a population of approximately 10,000, located about 50 miles north of Lake Charles.
Roberts was taken into custody at 10:13 a.m. and subsequently released an hour later on a $75,000 bond, as noted in the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office jail records.
State police revealed that the sheriff’s office had solicited the Special Victims Unit to probe a complaint alleging Roberts had engaged in sexual relations with a minor.
“As the investigation progressed, LSP SVU conducted interviews with two juveniles, one of whom was the victim. Both juveniles confirmed that Roberts had sexual intercourse with one juvenile while serving as Mayor,” stated the police.
Who is Misty Roberts?
Investigators secured a warrant for Roberts’ arrest, but she voluntarily surrendered on Thursday, as per the state police.
Roberts’ attorney, Adam Johnson, communicated to KPLC, stating, “My client became aware of a warrant late last night, despite not being contacted for an interview prior to the issuance of the warrant.”
Johnson further expressed, “We trust that the public will honor her constitutional presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of our justice system. Misty and her family deeply appreciate the support they have received from friends and neighbors, and we are eager to move past this unfortunate episode.”
The Louisiana State Police and Roberts’ attorney have been contacted for further comments via email.
Roberts, an independent, made history as the first female mayor of DeRidder in 2018. She was in her second term, having been reelected in 2022.
Born and raised in DeRidder, Roberts graduated from DeRidder High School in 2000, as detailed in a recent profile.
She is divorced. Addressing rumors earlier this year, she told BestofSWLA, “Contrary to what some have suggested, there was nothing scandalous behind it. It was a personal decision, and enduring it publicly has transformed me. I am not an ardent feminist, but this experience has shown me that there are those who expect women to embody perfection—to look and behave in certain ways.”
Roberts also announced her intention to seek a third term in 2026. She resigned from her mayoral post on July 27, stating in her resignation letter to the DeRidder City Council, “This role has blessed me with numerous meaningful relationships. I am honored to have witnessed the collective effort of a community coming together to overcome unprecedented challenges. However, I must now realign my focus and priorities.”
She added, “To the citizens of this city: Thank you for your trust, love, and support in allowing me to lead our city towards a promising future. My affection for DeRidder will never waver.”
Two days before her resignation, she informed Council Clerk Glenna Luther that she would be absent from the city between July 27 and August 10, designating fire chief Ken Harlow as acting mayor during her absence.
