Former DeRidder Mayor Misty Roberts has regained her freedom after serving a 90-day jail term.
The former Louisiana mayor was released on September 7, following her conviction for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy at a pool party in 2024.
Roberts, 44, was convicted in March. The charges were carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behaviour with a juvenile.
In June, the court sentenced her to 90 days in jail. She was also fined $5,000 and given two suspended five-year prison sentences. The court also ordered her to register as a sex offender.
The sentence did not sit well with prosecutors. They had asked for the maximum punishment of 17 years in prison.
When the light sentence was delivered, the prosecution asked Judge Kent Savoie to reconsider it. On August 31, the judge rejected that request and allowed Roberts to complete her 90-day term.
The decision has triggered outrage in DeRidder. Some residents and members of the victim's family have described the punishment as too lenient, considering the age of the victim.
Judge Savoie later admitted he made an error in his approach. He said he relied on more than 30 previous cases that were resolved through plea deals while deciding the sentence.
However, the judge maintained his position. He said he would not punish Roberts for choosing to exercise her right to a jury trial.
Roberts was first elected as mayor of DeRidder in 2018. She resigned from office just days before her arrest in August 2024.
She is now out under strict conditions. These include mandatory therapy, drug screening, and continued registration as a sex offender.
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