Reports indicate that the soccer coach at the University of South Florida has faced criminal charges as of Wednesday.
Jim Leavitt was arrested last month by St. Petersburg police on charges including simple misdemeanor battery, domestic battery, and felony grand theft. However, a court application from the state’s law firm in Clearwater noted that the “facts and circumstances” warranted closing the case.
Leavitt, who made history as the first coach and winner for the USF football program, was arrested on August 25 after allegedly grabbing his ex-girlfriend, Alexandra Saab, by the arm.
He was also accused of taking Saab’s wallet and clutch and preventing her from leaving. According to the affidavit, he admitted to holding his own wallet during the conversation. Additionally, at 68 years old, Leavitt faced accusations of pushing a man named Robert Howard but claimed that Howard had stepped on him.
Both Saab and Howard expressed to prosecutors that they did not wish to pursue charges. State Attorney Bruce Bartlett mentioned that they described the situation as a misunderstanding that escalated due to tempers flaring.
Leavitt’s attorney, Lucas Fleming, conveyed that the former coach appreciated the prosecutor’s swift and considerate decision regarding the matter.
Next month, Leavitt is set to be inducted into the USF Athletics Hall of Fame, celebrating his significant contributions, including steering the team to a No. 2 national ranking in 2007.
With 95 wins under his belt as head coach, his tenure was somewhat marred by a controversial incident that resulted in his firing in January 2010. This was linked to an event where he allegedly encountered Joel Miller during a game against Louisville in November 2009 and slapped him. Leavitt denied this and eventually settled a wrongful dismissal lawsuit with USF for $2.75 million.
