A former mayor, Misty Roberts, is facing allegations of engaging in sexual activity with an underage boy at a pool party, reportedly witnessed by her own children. The incident is said to have occurred in 2024 during Roberts’ tenure as mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana. Her trial on charges of third-degree rape commenced recently after several postponements, leading to her resignation from office shortly before her arrest in July 2024.

During the trial, jurors were presented with images from the party, showing children with drinks near the pool. Roberts’ son informed investigators that he saw his mother involved in sexual activity with his friend through a window, while her daughter stated she witnessed them in a compromising position, as reported by KPLC.

However, conflicting testimonies emerged when Roberts’ children testified, with her son expressing uncertainty about what he saw that night. The prosecution introduced a text message where the son mentioned the boy’s age as seventeen, although the victim was confirmed to be sixteen at the time of the alleged incident.

Further testimonies included forensic interviewers who spoke with the involved children, with differing accounts and timelines provided. Roberts’ nephew mentioned using his phone to observe the event, unsure if he recorded it, later deleting any potential footage from his device.

Despite the lack of explicit visual evidence, the victim’s mother contacted Roberts post-incident to ensure a lack of pregnancy risk, to which Roberts reassured with her use of birth control. Additionally, the court revealed exchanges indicating Roberts sharing details of the conversation with friends, leading to the delivery of emergency contraception to her residence.

The trial also addressed discrepancies in the interview process, with the defence highlighting potential issues in transcribing crucial statements. Roberts had previously pleaded not guilty to charges of indecent behavior with a juvenile and carnal knowledge of a juvenile.

Roberts’ resignation letter in July 2024 expressed gratitude for her time as mayor and the community’s support, signaling a shift in her priorities. Re-elected in 2022 for a second term with a significant majority, Roberts held the mayoral position in DeRidder, a city in Louisiana with a population of nearly 10,000 residents.