A former Louisiana mayor convicted of sex crimes involving a minor is pushing back against the verdict and preparing to challenge the outcome in court.
Misty Roberts, the former mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, was found guilty Tuesday on two felony charges: carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. The 43-year-old now faces a potential sentence of up to 17 years in prison when she returns to court for sentencing on April 17.
Roberts’ attorney says she strongly disagrees with the jury’s decision and plans to appeal.
“Misty is very, very disappointed” in the verdict, defense attorney Todd Clemons told TMZ. Clemons added, “At this particular point, there’s no apology that I’m gonna give on her behalf,” while explaining that Roberts respects the jury but intends to challenge the conviction through the appeals process.
According to Clemons, Roberts continues to maintain her innocence and hopes to avoid prison time when she is sentenced.
“As for her April sentencing … Misty maintains her innocence, and they’re going to do everything in their power to convince the judge not to send her to prison,” Clemons said.
Prosecutors argued during the trial that the incident happened during a pool party at Roberts’ home. Testimony presented in court stated that the alleged victim’s friend, who is also Roberts’ son, reported seeing Roberts and the teen having drunken sex inside the house.
The jury ultimately convicted Roberts on both felony counts after hearing the testimony and reviewing the evidence presented during the trial.
Roberts previously served as mayor of DeRidder, a small city in western Louisiana. Her defense team plans to argue during sentencing that incarceration is not necessary.
Clemons said Roberts was “an excellent mayor and is an excellent mother,” adding that the defense intends to present those points to the judge during the upcoming sentencing hearing.
