Candidate for Newberry City Commission Faces Battery Charge After Forum Dispute

NEWBERRY – A Newberry City Commission candidate is expected to face a simple battery charge following an altercation after a candidate forum Sunday, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

Brandy Oldman, who is running for the Group 1 seat currently held by Commissioner Rick Coleman, was involved in a dispute with Newberry resident Jessica Carey following a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters on March 29, 2026.

 

Authorities said the incident stemmed from an argument between the two women regarding charter schools. During the exchange, which escalated into shouting, a video of the encounter shows Oldman walking away before returning to confront Carey again.

In the video, Oldman can be heard saying, “I know where you live. I know where you live,” before approaching Carey a second time. Moments later, Carey’s phone is seen being knocked from her hand.

The original video of the incident has been shared publicly on Facebook and can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1KSBRhddkV/

 

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Oldman allegedly knocked the phone from Carey’s hand twice during the confrontation.

Deputies responded to the incident and placed Oldman in handcuffs at the scene. She was later released without being formally booked into jail.

The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office said a sworn complaint charging Oldman with simple battery will be forwarded to the State Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors will review the case and determine whether formal charges will be filed.

No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

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