Scott Blake: Former Polo Park Middle principal pleads not guilty to federal sex charge

Scott A. Blake, principal of Polo Park Middle School, was arrested on one count of online solicitation of a minor and one count of traveling to meet a minor to commit an unlawful act, according to a probably cause affidavit.
Photographer: PBSO

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Posted: 09/13/2012

By: Marc Freeman, Sun Sentinel

WEST PALM BEACH - Just a few blocks from the downtown arts high school where he once served as assistant principal, Scott Blake appeared Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge William Matthewman.

Facing a federal charge of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, Blake pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial. The career educator, 47, then returned to his cell at Palm Beach County Jail.

Blake was serving as principal of Polo Park Middle in Wellington when he was arrested July 26 by Boynton Beach police. According to arrest records, Blake had been using the Internet to communicate with an undercover officer pretending to be a 15-year-old boy.

In federal court, Blake was represented by attorney Donnie Murrell. He declined to comment after Blake's arraignment.

The charge carries a maximum punishment of 10 years to life in prison, a lifetime of court supervision, and a $250,000 fine. Blake no longer works for the public school system.