Use “indict” only in connection with the legal process of bringing charges against an individual or corporations.
In order to avoid any suggestion that an individual is being judged before a trial, do not use phrases such as “indicted for killing” or “indicted for bribery.” Instead, AP Style states that you should use “indicted on a charge of killing” or “indicted on a bribery charge.” For example,
- Wrong: Joe Smith, indicted for killing his wife, is being granted bail.
- Correct: Joe Smith, indicted on a charge of killing his wife, is being granted bail.
Also see pages on guidelines related to using accused, allege, and arrest.