After weeks of speculation punctuated by Jackson Mayor Frank Melton’s public complaints of the cost of his legal defense, Melton settled on former state Rep. John Reeves to defend him against charges that could send him to federal prison for decades.
Reeves has long practiced law in Jackson, but he is best known for his political career.
For 24 years, Reeves, a Republican, represented a south Jackson district in the state House. He lost that seat last year in a close and bitterly contested race against Democratic newcomer Adrienne Wooten.
Before hiring him, Melton this summer attempted to have Reeves named as a Municipal Court judge.
Reeves settled for a seat on the Jackson Redevelopment Authority when some City Council members said they would oppose the nomination.
Magnolia Tribune
