Education First for Newberry board member makes first appearance

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Joel Searby, 43, was denied bond at a first appearance hearing Friday morning but the judge says his lawyer can argue for bond again in three days at another hearing.

If the argument for bond on Monday is successful, Searby will not be allowed to make contact with the victim, have access to a computer or cell phone, or make contact with any children.

In the hearing, Searby stood silently while his defense attorney argued for his visitation rights as two senior citizens stood nearby.

The judge agreed to an exception for Searby to see his children under supervision.

Searby was arrested Thursday and charged with multiple sex crimes, including lewd and lascivious behavior with a minor after he contacted a 15-year-old boy intending to have sex with him.

Searby was one of the leaders in the push to turn Newberry public schools into charter schools and a volunteer coach for the Oakview Middle School Basketball program for the last three years.

Members of Newberry Education First say they have cut ties with Searby in a Facebook post stating, “Education First for Newberry, Inc. is deeply troubled by the arrest of Joel Searby. The allegations against him are gravely serious and contrary to our core values as an organization. We immediately severed all ties with him upon learning of this incident. We will fully cooperate with law enforcement and be of any assistance we can during this difficult time. The safety of our children is and will always be our #1 priority.”

Gainesville-based law firm Edwards and Jones is representing Searby. TV20 reached out to the law firm for comment, but a representative declined to comment on the case.

RELATED: Newberry Education First board member denied bail at first appearance hearing

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