JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Mayor Frank Melton, who has been accused of being too heavy-handed in fighting crime, was indicted Friday on charges he directed young people to use sledgehammers to smash up a home where he suspected drugs were being used.

The charges included malicious mischief, home burglary and carrying a gun on school property. Prosecutors said convictions on all charges would carry up to 50 years in prison.

Two police officers who served as Melton's bodyguards were also indicted. All three were released after posting bail.

Their surrender came a day after Hinds County prosecutors announced that a grand jury would review allegations stemming from the destruction of a duplex on Aug. 26 and a fight in a nightclub the same night.

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Melton's attorney, former Jackson Mayor Dale Danks, said Melton was trying to rid Jackson of crime, and damage was done to a "drug house."

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