To be indicted means to be formally accused of committing a crime, typically a serious one such as a felony. An indictment is a formal legal document that initiates criminal proceedings against the accused person, signaling that enough evidence exists to bring the case to trial

. The indictment process usually involves a grand jury, which is a group of citizens who review evidence presented by the prosecutor in a secret proceeding. The grand jury determines whether there is probable cause to believe the accused committed the crime. If they find sufficient evidence, they issue the indictment, also called a "true bill," formally charging the individual

. Being indicted does not mean the person is guilty; it only means there is enough evidence to proceed with prosecution. The accused still has the right to a trial, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt

. In summary, an indictment is:

• A formal accusation of a crime, usually a felony.
• Issued by a grand jury after reviewing evidence.
• A necessary step before a criminal trial.
• Not a determination of guilt but a signal that the case will move forward in the legal system