Former Louisiana Mayor Faces Rape Charge Involving Minor

Misty Clanton Roberts, ex-mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, was arrested on charges of third-degree rape and delinquency of a minor. The arrest came a week after her sudden resignation. Roberts' lawyer claims her innocence, emphasizing her constitutional presumption of innocence. Roberts was the first female mayor of DeRidder, serving since 2018.

Misty Clanton Roberts, the former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, was apprehended on Thursday by Louisiana State Police on charges of third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The arrest took place nearly a week after Roberts unexpectedly resigned from her position.

Roberts, 42, was released from the Beauregard Parish jail after posting a $75,000 bond. Authorities confirmed she submitted her resignation to the city council on July 27 and had earlier announced a two-week leave, appointing Fire Chief Ken Harlow as acting mayor.

Sgt. Ross Brennan of the state police revealed that two juveniles provided statements alleging that Roberts engaged in sexual activities with one of them while she was in office. Roberts' attorney, Adam Johnson, insisted on her innocence, urging the public to respect her constitutional rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)