Former Jefferson Parish Councilman Chris Roberts dead

Chris Roberts

Authorities confirm the death of Former Jefferson Parish Councilman Chris Roberts.

The Roberts family authorized Sheriff Joe Lopinto to release the following"

"It is with deep sympathy and great sadness that the family of Chris Roberts acknowledges that he passed away this evening after a long battle with depression. The family asks for your prayers and support during this difficult time.  Please respect the families' privacy during this difficult time."

NOLA.com reported that the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office was leading the investigation and was describing the death as an apparent suicide.

Roberts was 42 years old.

He was under federal indictment.

A grand jury indicted Roberts in May of 2019 on 29 counts of wire fraud and tax evasion.

“We are absolutely heartbroken to hear that our former colleague and former Jefferson Parish Council Chairman Chris Roberts has passed away. He was a truly dedicated public servant, with a career spanning over two… https://t.co/lb9zsLMAYV

— Jefferson Parish (@JeffParishGov) February 20, 2020