Lawyers negotiate in Jackson mayor trial
Published 12:48 am Sunday, February 15, 2009
Prosecutors and defense attorneys for Mayor Frank Melton met Friday to discuss the defense’s witness list, closing statements and possible jury instructions for when the civil rights trial resumes next week.
The prosecution rested its case Thursday against Melton and his former bodyguard Michael Recio, who face three felony civil rights charges stemming from damage to a duplex apartment in August 2006. Melton has said the duplex was a “crack house.” They each could face a maximum 25-year sentence if convicted.
U.S. District Judge Dan Jordan indicated he would likely let witnesses testify about using, buying or selling drugs at the duplex as well as testimony about the condition of the home. Jordan has scheduled another conference with attorneys on Tuesday before the trial resumes at 10 a.m.