Steroids dealer gets new lawyer, may delay sentencing

A Lakeland man accused of having the largest collection of illegal steroids in Polk's history got a new lawyer Thursday morning.

Porcelli said that “irreconcilable differences” had developed between Thomas and his private lawyer, Mark A. Taylor.

The lawyer wrote in a motion to withdraw from the case that Thomas sent a letter to a federal judge expressing dissatisfaction with Taylor's representation.

After Thursday morning's hearing, Taylor would not comment about what any differences were with his client.

Taylor did say he was disappointed that Thomas sent the letter to the judge rather than speak to him directly.

Thomas pleaded guilty Nov. 10 to possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids, a charge that carries a maximum of five years in prison. He was scheduled to be sentenced on March 31.

However, Thomas' switch to a new lawyer will likely delay that sentencing hearing.

Magistrate Judge Anthony E. Porcelli appointed the Federal Public Defender to represent Richard “Andy” Thomas.

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