The attorney representing a former Anna Maria Elementary principal charged with soliciting prostitution requested an extension in the case.
Brian Palacios, the attorney representing Thomas Levengood, 68, told 13th Judicial Circuit Court Judge John Conrad Dec. 17 he got access to the audio evidence he’d been waiting for but had concerns that required more time to prepare his case.
Palacios did not specify his concerns but told Conrad he was sure they could be resolved. The attorney again waived a speedy trial for his client and requested a continuance.
Conrad continued the case to 1:30 p.m., Jan. 21, 2021.
At a Nov. 19 hearing, Palacios was waiting for audio evidence he’d recently learned of but was unable to access.
Palacios refused to comment on the case when first contacted by The Islander Sept. 25 and has since not returned phone calls or emails requesting comment. Levengood also continued to not answer calls from The Islander.
Levengood was arrested by Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office deputies as part of a sting known as “Operation Park Cleanup” Sept. 10 at Sun City Park in Ruskin for entering/remaining in place for prostitution, lewdness, or assignation, according to the record of his arrest.
Following his arrest, Levengood posted a $250 cash bond and was released from jail. He pleaded not guilty Sept. 14.
If convicted of the charge, a second-degree misdemeanor, Levengood could face up to 60 days in prison and/or a fine up to $500.
Levengood was the principal at AME from February 2007 through June 2014. He was the principal at Bayshore Elementary from August 1994 through January 2007.