Jury Selection begins in Hart County Case against Gymnastics Coach

Jury selection has begun in Hart County in the criminal trial against Jeremy Leonard Green, also known as “Coach Bob,” who faces multiple felony charges. Selection began February 10, 2026.

Hart County Grand Jury previously indicted Green on several counts, including six counts of rape and child molestation. The six-count indictment alleges Green molested and raped “a teenage girl under the age of 16 from July 2015 to November 2015.”

The case has drawn significant public attention in Hartwell and throughout Northeast Georgia, particularly following the death of 20-year-old Jennifer Cobb, who authorities have identified as a key alleged victim in the investigation. Cobb was found deceased on June 30, 2021. Her death remains under investigation.

Green, 36, was arrested June 15, 2021, and initially charged with criminal attempt to commit a felony, enticing a child for indecent purposes, statutory rape, sodomy, and child molestation.

Community Response

In the weeks following Cobb’s death, members of the Hartwell community gathered at the courthouse square for a candlelight vigil. Participants remembered Cobb as outgoing and compassionate, someone who loved animals, the outdoors, and activities such as gymnastics, swimming, fishing, and camping. 

Susan Cobb said her daughter had decided to testify in court. “She was looking forward to telling her story and protecting others,” Susan Cobb said.

Allegations Presented in Court

Prosecutors allege Green was a gymnastics instructor at the Hartwell YMCA, where he met Cobb when she was 12 years old. According to statements presented in court by Northern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Parks White, investigators believe Green engaged in a pattern of grooming behavior beginning when Cobb was a minor.

Grooming, as defined by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), involves manipulative behaviors used by offenders to gain a child’s trust and access while reducing the likelihood of detection.

White told the court that the alleged conduct included inappropriate touching and solicitation of sexual images when Cobb was a minor. Prosecutors also allege Green later lured Cobb from her home while she was underage.

At a June 24, 2021 bond hearing before Judge Harvey Wasserman, Cobb addressed the court, stating she came forward because she was concerned about the safety of other children.

“I don’t just worry about myself. I worry about other girls,” she said.

Judge Wasserman granted Green a $250,000 commercial bond with conditions including house arrest, an ankle monitor, no cellphone use, and no contact with alleged victims or witnesses.

Green’s defense attorney, Nancee Tomlinson, presented character witnesses at the hearing. Pastors from Green’s church testified to his reputation and character.

Ongoing Investigation

Cobb’s family has also used the case to raise awareness about grooming and child sexual abuse prevention. Georgia HB993 passed unanimously on April 24, 2024 which criminalizes the act of grooming minors for sexual purposes. It defines grooming as actions intended to prepare a child for sexual abuse. Offenders can face severe penalties, including imprisonment. The legislation mandates reporting suspected grooming activities to authorities. It aims to enhance training for law enforcement on recognizing grooming behaviors. The bill received bipartisan support, reflecting a collective concern for child safety.

“Our goal is to educate the community about grooming and how it happens,” Susan Cobb said.

According to RAINN, approximately one in nine girls and one in 53 boys under age 18 experience sexual abuse or assault by an adult.

The criminal case against Green is now moving forward to trial in Hart County Superior Court. Court proceedings are expected to continue following the completion of jury selection anticipated to be February 11, 2026.