District Attorney Collin Sims reports that today (March 12, 2026), 39-year-old Ashley Carambat of Pearl River was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty as charged to a series of horrific crimes.
The Honorable Judge Reginald T. Badeaux, III, handed down the following sentences, ordered to run concurrently:
- Life Imprisonment for First Degree Rape (Victim under age 13).
- 25 Years for Production of Pornography (Victim under age 13).
- 20 Years for Production of Pornography involving Juveniles.
- 20 Years for Aggravated Crimes Against Nature (Victim over age 13 but under age 17).
- 5 Years for Sexual Abuse of an Animal.
The investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office revealed a harrowing environment of abuse. During the emotional sentencing hearing, the court heard powerful victim impact statements from Carambat’s victims.
One of the victims told the court, “Six years ago, I had terrible things happen to me that no kid should have to go through. Every day, I suffer from depression and anger. She’s just a monster. [You’ve] scarred me for life.”
Her other victim addressed her directly: “I am nothing like you...I hope one day I can fully forgive you, not for you, but for me.”
The victim’s guardians also testified, condemning her choices. One stated, “You’re the predator. They’re strong kids, but no kid deserves to go through what you put them through.” Another added, “You chose to stay with Steve Harden and continued to make poor decisions.”
Before sentencing, Carambat addressed her victims, stating, “I’m sorry for not being there and not protecting you. None of this is and will ever be your fault. I will always love you. I hope that one day there will be forgiveness.”
“The betrayal of a child’s safety by an adult they should have been able to trust is a profound evil,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “While these survivors will carry these scars forever, today’s life sentence ensures their abuser will never have the opportunity to harm them or any other child again. I am in awe of the courage and strength shown by these young people in court today.”
Assistant District Attorney Iain Dover prosecuted the case.
Co-defendant Steven Harden, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for prior convictions of molestation and computer-aided solicitation of one of these same victims, did not enter a plea today. His trial for the remaining charges in this matter is scheduled to take place on March 23, 2026.
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