WADESBORO, N.C. — A youth basketball coach accused of child sex crimes was given a $250,000 secured bond in court on Wednesday.
Jamoszio "Moszi" Burch led the NC Jayhawks AAU team and was a former coach at Union Academy. Now, he's behind bars, accused of human trafficking.
In the Anson County courtroom, closed to cameras, Burch's court-appointed attorney defended him, saying he's a basketball coach and not a danger to the community, but prosecutors said Burch should remain behind bars, alleging there are at least two victims with more possible in other counties.
The courthouse is in downtown Wadesboro, a place where Burch was known as a mentor and trusted youth basketball coach.
Anson County deputies have since charged him with human trafficking and indecent liberties with children.
After speaking with parents and players, Stanly County is now also investigating Burch.
“We could potentially have victims here," Stanly County Sheriff Jeff Crisco said. "We want them to come forward with their parents to give us the information in hopes that, okay, if you don’t want to talk, well, maybe you can tell us it happened to somebody else that way we can go to that individuals’ parents.”
While both schools and the AAU say they have protocols in place to screen coaches for potential misconduct, Jennifer Wolff, a certified trauma treatment specialist, says there are signs parents can watch for to help make sure their children are safe.
"I know my child. Suddenly, they don't want to go places. They don't want to be with friends. You’ll see changes in their sleeping, their eating," Wolff said.
Once a child shares that something concerning has happened, Wolff said it's important to show support.
"Believe them. Reassure them, they're not in trouble and that it took a tremendous amount of courage to tell their story," Wolff said.
The case is still under active investigation.
Those with details they think can help should contact Anson or Stanly County Sheriff's Offices.
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.