Storytimes Newspapers

   A jury in Beauregard Parish has convicted former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts on two felony charges stemming from an alcohol-fueled incident at her home in July 2024, during which she was accused of engaging in sexual activity with a 16-year-old boy who was a friend of her son. The verdict, delivered on March 3, 2026, after less than an hour of deliberations following a week-long trial, found the 43-year-old guilty of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Both are felony offenses under Louisiana law, carrying potential prison sentences of up to 10 years and 7 years respectively, for a combined maximum of 17 years. Sentencing is scheduled for April 17, 2026. The case centered on a pool party hosted by Roberts at her residence while she was still serving as mayor during her second term. Prosecutors alleged that heavy alcohol consumption—provided at the event—played a significant role, with testimony indicating both Roberts and the teenage boy w...