Misty Roberts Clanton (Ind.), the previous mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, has been charged with third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.
The 42-year-old mayor abruptly resigned final week, at some point after the allegations got here to gentle.
“For practically 15 years, my love and fervour for DeRidder has been my basis whereas serving as Mayor. I’ll ceaselessly be happy with what we have now been capable of accomplish – collectively,” DeRidder wrote in her resignation letter dated July 27.
“This function has rewarded me with many nice relationships. I’m humbled to have witnessed the arduous work that took a neighborhood to return collectively and overcome by way of unprecedented occasions. Nevertheless, I have to modify my focus and priorities.
“Please settle for this letter as my formal resignation, efficient as we speak.To the residents of this metropolis: Thanks on your belief, love and help in me to guide our metropolis into our way forward for greatness. My love for DeRidder won’t ever waiver,” she concluded.
The investigation started on July 26, following a request from the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Workplace for the Louisiana State Police Particular Sufferer’s Unit (LSP SVU) to analyze a grievance towards the then-sitting mayor. The allegations concerned sexual relations with a minor throughout her tenure in workplace.
The investigation led to interviews with two juveniles, one in all whom was recognized because the sufferer. Each confirmed that Roberts engaged in sexual activity with the sufferer whereas she was in workplace.
As particulars emerged, an arrest warrant was issued by the Beauregard Parish thirty sixth Judicial District Court docket.
On August 1, 2024, Roberts surrendered to investigators with out incident and was booked into the Beauregard Parish Detention Heart. She was launched 77 minutes in a while a $75,000 bond, based on the New York Submit.
She faces severe fees underneath Louisiana Revised Statutes: LRS 14:43 for third-degree rape and LRS 14:92 for contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.
