While a federal judge was preparing to rule Tuesday if Mayor Frank Melton is too sick to stand trial, Melton made several public appearances – from a news conference to a council meeting.
The day captured the fine line Melton is walking between being too sick to stand trial but well enough to run for re-election next year.
Melton could know as soon as today whether the court thinks he is healthy enough to participate in a three- to four-week trial on civil rights charges scheduled to begin Monday with jury selection. The charges are related to damage Melton allegedly ordered done to a duplex on West Ridgeway Street in August 2006. Melton, who has chronic heart problems and underwent surgery in November, has asked for a delay.
During his public appearances Tuesday, Melton appeared tired at times, periodically closing his eyes at the Jackson City Council meeting or resting his head on his hands.
Magnolia Tribune
