NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted Friday in what prosecutors called a yearslong scheme to hide a romantic relationship with her bodyguard, who is accused of being paid as if he was working even when they met alone in apartments and traveled to vineyards for wine tasting.

Officials allege she defrauded the city while trying to keep hidden her relationship with a police officer. She's charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and obstruction.

Public officials and political watchers lamented the harsh spotlight on New Orleans after Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted by a federal grand jury.