Ex-cheerleader Johnathan Madison's father and lawyer won't say why a suit against the school district was dropped.
By Times Staff Writer
Published August 5, 2004
DADE CITY - The family and attorney for a former Pasco High School cheerleader who dropped his lawsuit against the school district this week were mum Wednesday on the reasons for backing away.
Attorney Brad Tobin filed the lawsuit last year after the Pasco County School Board refused to overturn the suspension of Johnathan Madison, now 18.
Madison was the only male cheerleader on the Pasco High squad when he was accused last summer of bringing vodka to a cheering camp, a charge he denies. Madison was suspended for three days and kicked off the cheering squad.
He and his family sued the district, and this spring a judge agreed he could pursue a civil rights complaint against the district. Madison has since graduated, and Tobin said he plans to begin taking college courses this fall, although he did not say where.
Madison's father, John, on Wednesday referred questions to Tobin.
Tobin confirmed the lawsuit has been voluntarily dismissed, but he would not discuss why or what the family's plans would be.
"Basically, this is just about what's going to be best for Johnathan," Tobin said.
In the next six months, Tobin said the Madison family would discuss what, if any, further course to pursue.
