January 16, 1967, Cleveland Press

Protesting he is innocent – that his poetry is not obscene – Darryl A. Levy surrendered today and was promptly put in County Jail when he failed to post $2500 bond.

The 23-year-old poet, who usually was bearded when seen at his University Circle hangouts, was clean shaven when he walked into the criminal Courts Bldg. Accompanied by his attorney, Jonathan S. Dworkin.

He had been sought by police ever since he was indicted secretly in November on charges of possession and sale of obscenity. Penalty is one to seven years’ imprisonment and fines of from $200 to $2000 on conviction.

Presiding Judge Frank D. Celebrezze set bond after learning that Levy has no address and no job except for selling poetry.

When Dworkin appealed for personal bond, Ray F. McCool, personal bond administrator protested to judge Celebrezze.

"THIS MAN is not eligible for personal bond," said McCool. "He has evaded police since his indictment which has been publicized for two weeks. He has no job and no address."

"I sell poetry for 89 cents a day," replied Levy.

"He has received accolades from all over the country for his poetry, but unfortunately, no money," said Dworkin.

Said the judge: "Bail of $2500 is not excessive for a great poet. Maybe he should charge more than 89 cents."

Before surrendering Levy said in an interview that he waited to come in because he was completing some work.

"I’LL TELL YOU what baby," he told a reporter. "Go down to the Asphodel (a book store at 306 West Superior Ave.) and pick up my latest bit and you’ll see what I’ve been doing."

"I make less than 89 cents a day, but I brag a bit and claim I make 89 cents."