
A small Louisiana city has been thrust into national scrutiny after a former mayor stood trial over allegations she sexually assaulted a 16-year-old boy during a pool party attended by her own children.
The case centres on Misty Roberts, the former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, who is charged with third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles following an alleged incident in 2024. Prosecutors say the encounter occurred at a party Roberts hosted for teenagers at her home, where alcohol was allegedly provided. Court testimony and investigative interviews presented to jurors indicate that Roberts' own children became key witnesses in the criminal proceedings.