An attorney for a Thomaston insurance agent who has been charged with 59 counts in connection with a prostitution ring in Kennebunk has asked a judge to postpone the trial for at least a month.

Daniel Lilley, attorney for Mark Strong, 57, filed a motion Monday in York County Superior Court to delay his client’s trial, which had been scheduled to begin next week. 

Police have alleged that Strong, who owns an insurance agency in Thomaston, was a partner of Alexis Wright, 29, who is suspected of running a prostitution business out of her Zumba studio in Kennebunk dating back to 2010. Strong also had a sexual relationship with Wright, according to court documents.

Lilley’s motion asks for a postponement until Feb. 19 so that he has more time to prepare his defense. Lilley has been outspoken in the past about the large amount of evidence that is expected to be presented in the case but was not available for comment on Monday. His motion indicates that the prosecutor, York County Deputy District Attorney Justina McGettigan, opposes any delay.

Earlier this month, Lilley asked that the case against his client be dismissed, but Superior Court Justice Nancy Mills denied that request. A decision on the latest motion is expected later this week, according to a court clerk.

Wright also faces numerous charges but her case will be tried separately. Additionally, more than 60 individuals have been charged with paying Wright for sex. None of those cases have gone to trial. Many have pleaded guilty and paid a small fine.

 


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