DeRidder, LA (8/1/2024) – Former Mayor of DeRidder, Misty Roberts Clanton, who resigned on July 27, is suspected of having sex with a juvenile.
On July 26, 2024, the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office requested the Louisiana State Police Special Victim’s Unit (LSP SVU) to investigate the allegations. Consequently, the investigation led to the arrest of 42-year-old Misty Roberts.
LSP SVU interviewed two juveniles, including the victim. Both confirmed Roberts had sexual intercourse with one juvenile while she was Mayor. Thus, investigators obtained an arrest warrant for Roberts from the Beauregard Parish 36th Judicial District Court.
On August 1, 2024, Roberts turned herself in to investigators without incident. She was booked into the Beauregard Parish Detention Center on charges of Third Degree Rape and Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles. Meanwhile, the investigation remains ongoing.
Previously, on July 25, Roberts informed the Council Clerk of her planned absence from July 27 to August 10, 2024. Consequently, she appointed Fire Chief Ken Harlow as acting Mayor of DeRidder. On July 27, Roberts formally resigned, effective immediately. She expressed gratitude for nearly 15 years of service and thanked the city’s residents for their trust and support.
LSP SVU works to rescue and seek justice for victims of child exploitation and human trafficking. They collaborate with law enforcement agencies and educate the public. Therefore, the public is urged to report suspicious activity via the Louisiana State Police online reporting system at la-safe.org.
Source: Louisiana State Police Public Affairs Section, Office: (985) 857-3680
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