Jackson Free Press

Full JFP Melton Archive/Blog Here
2009 JFP Interview with Melton, Part I

Judge Dan Jordan has set a date for a retrial of Mayor Frank Melton and his former police bodyguard, Michael Recio, on civil rights charges. On May 11, federal prosecutors will get a second shot at convicting the two, after their first federal trial ended in a hung jury on Feb. 27.

Jordan will enter a court order on a possible change of venue in the next few days. Melton attorney John Reeves told the Jackson Free Press that he would continue to represent the mayor and that Cynthia Stewart would remain as Michael Recio's attorney. Reeves declined to comment further, citing the gag order Jordan placed on the case in October. Federal prosecutor Mark Blumberg also declined to comment.

Melton and Recio are charged with willfully depriving constitutional rights in conjunction with the Sept. 2006 destruction of a private home on Ridgeway Street. They also face related conspiracy and gun charges.

According to WLBT, jurors in the recent federal trial came close to convicting the mayor on the deprivation of rights charge, with ten voting to convict and two voting to acquit. Jurors were reportedly further from convicting either defendant on the other charges, with five voting for conviction and seven voting for acquittal.

Melton has announced plans to run for reelection. The city's primary election is May 5.

Previous Comments

ID

144365

Comment

Personally, I'm relieved it's not until May. I need a vacation soon, and my tweet fingers need a slight rest. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-03-05T12:12:35-06:00

ID

144366

Comment

I have a feeling that this time Melton will be face with two major issues. Losing his attempt to be re-elected and being convicted. I wonder how he will be able to finance his campaign and pay all his legal bills? Melton is using his appointees and City workers to work in his campaign. They were on TV showing their support for Melton when he signed his paper work for re-elections. I know that they did not take vacation time to be there! By the way can we get some more support on get the FBI to investigate Sarah O'Reilly Evans, Robert Walker,Stephanie Parker Weaver,Frank Blunston and others that new about Melton illegal activities and tried to keep it in the closet. If it wasn't for the JFD the truth would have never been told!!!

Author

Tony Davis

Date

2009-03-05T12:13:32-06:00

ID

144367

Comment

Interesting timing. Should Melton get into the run-off, the trial will be going on, right? One would think that would tarnish his chances a bit. I still say he should have taken the deal back during state-court times.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-03-05T12:13:35-06:00

ID

144369

Comment

Several city employees certainly spent some time in the courtroom, including Robert Walker. Also, I'd guess we can about guarantee sequestration this time. And experts we've talked to say a mistrial benefits the prosecution because they can learn from from what happened. Of course, so can the defense. I wonder if Reeves will be back for another pass. I might put my money on "not." But that's merely a guess, and I have a policy of not predicting. So take it as you will.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-03-05T12:16:34-06:00

ID

144372

Comment

I sure wish the judge could have chosen a date that was before the primaries.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2009-03-05T12:32:39-06:00

ID

144396

Comment

I really feel sorry for Recio. Melton use his authority and influence to intimidate both of his body Guards. I know both f these guy and they really are not bad people at all. They have lost every thing because they were picked to guard a liar and a fool. Melton not only has hurt them but what about their children that he claimed where just like his own. Melton antics has put these children which I know very well ( WELL BEHAVE and RESPECTFUL) and have just destroy their lives and their family all because he of his desire to have his exploits in the media. Frank Melton you really need to be ashame of yourself!!!!

Author

Tony Davis

Date

2009-03-05T17:58:14-06:00