In DeRidder, Louisiana, Misty Clanton Roberts, who recently resigned as mayor, was arrested by the Louisiana State Police. Roberts, aged 42, faces charges of third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. She was released from jail in Beauregard Parish after posting a $75,000 bond. The exact schedule for her arraignment is currently unknown.
According to Sgt. Ross Brennan, a state police spokesman, the allegations involve Roberts having sexual relations with a minor during her time as mayor of DeRidder. Details about the age, gender, or hometown of the alleged victim were not disclosed.
Roberts’ sudden resignation occurred less than a week before her arrest. She had informed the city council of her decision in a letter. Following her resignation, Fire Chief Ken Harlow was appointed as the acting mayor during her absence. Roberts’ attorney, Adam Johnson, asserted her innocence in a statement to KPLC-TV, emphasizing her right to the presumption of innocence as a core component of the justice system.
An independent, Misty Clanton Roberts made history as the first female mayor of DeRidder in 2018, successfully securing a second term in 2022. Her family appreciates the support received from their community and anticipates moving forward from this difficult situation.
Former Louisiana mayor arrested for alleged rape of minor after sudden resignation
