Tampa, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Thomas Palermo to the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court and the appointment of Jessica Costello to the Hillsborough County Court.

“Mr. Palermo has led an impressive legal career and I am certain he is ready to take this next step as a judge on the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit,” said Governor DeSantis. “The people of Hillsborough County can rest assured that he will serve with honor and distinction.”

“Ms. Costello’s work as a prosecutor in the Attorney General’s Office leaves no doubt that she is ready and qualified for this judgeship,” said Governor DeSantis. “She knows the issues of Hillsborough County well and that will be reflected with her new position on the bench.”

Photo Credit: Office of the Governor

Thomas Palermo

Palermo, 43, of Tampa, is an Assistant United States Attorney at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He received his bachelor’s degree from American University and his law degree from the Florida State University College of Law. Palermo fills the vacancy created by the appoint of Judge Laurel Lee as Secretary of State.

Jessica Costello

Costello, 34, originally from South Carolina, is an Assistant Statewide Prosecutor at the Florida Attorney General’s Office. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her law degree from the Florida State University College of Law. Costello fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Lawrence Lefler to the Thirteenth Circuit Court.

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