Pubdate: Tue, 09 Aug 2005
Source: Ledger, The (FL)
Copyright: 2005 The Ledger
Contact:  http://www.theledger.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/795
Author: Jason Geary, The Ledger
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine)

EX-PUBLIC DEFENDER GETS WORK RELEASE

Michael Amico Says This "Had To Happen To Me In Order For Me To Straighten Up."

BARTOW -- A former assistant public defender must serve 20 days in a 
weekend work release program for violating his probation when he was 
arrested in Key West on a drug charge.

"I am sorry for what I've done," Michael Amico told County Judge Mark 
Carpanini at his sentencing hearing Monday.

"In some ways, something like this, unfortunately, had to happen to me in 
order for me to straighten up."

On March 27, Amico, 30, was arrested for possession of cocaine on Duval 
Street, a part of Key West's popular downtown tourist district, according 
to Monroe County Sheriff's Office records.

Amico was already serving one year's probation after pleading no contest to 
reckless driving with alcohol as a factor. He crashed into three cars 
parked at a Winter Haven apartment Jan. 27, 2004, police reports state.

Amico resigned as an assistant public defender in Bartow shortly after his 
arrest in Key West.

His lawyer, Larry Shearer, said his client has been doing "great" after 
spending more than 100 days in an intensive treatment program, which he 
should complete within weeks.

Amico entered into a diversionary program to resolve his drug case, Shearer 
said. If he successfully completes the program, prosecutors have agreed to 
drop the charge.

Amico said the arrests have been life-changing experiences for him.

"I've gone through all my savings and all my checking -- everything," Amico 
said. "I am materially bankrupt, but emotionally and spiritually I have 
never been richer."

He plans to accept an assistant public defender position in Tampa. "They 
are willing to take a chance on me," Amico said.

Ken Bryk, a lawyer with The Florida Bar, said a grievance committee would 
review Amico's case.

The Florida Supreme Court could impose sanctions ranging from an 
admonishment to disbarment. Or the court could take no action.
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