A former Blevins School District counselor has been arrested following a three-month investigation into multiple criminal offenses involving minors.
Justin James Mishler, 33, of Nashville, Arkansas, was taken into custody by the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office after an extensive inquiry conducted in collaboration with the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Mishler faces several charges, including:
- Promoting Obscene Materials
- Unlawful Computerized Communications
- Possession, Sale, or Distribution of Obscene Materials
- Producing, Directing, or Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child
- Pandering or Possessing Visual or Print Medium Depicting Sexually Explicit Conduct Involving a Child
- Engaging Children in Sexually Explicit Conduct for Use in Visual or Print Medium
- Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the Second Degree
- Harassment
- Tampering with Physical Evidence
The investigation was launched in response to reports of inappropriate conduct involving minors. Mishler, who served as a counselor and interim principal at Blevins High School, resigned from his position in November 2024.
Authorities executed 15 search warrants for social media platforms and electronic devices linked to Mishler, ultimately leading to an arrest warrant. Mishler, accompanied by his attorney, surrendered to Investigator Sgt. Jeremy McBride on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Following his arrest, Mishler appeared before Circuit Judge Short, who set his bond at $100,000. After posting bond, he was released pending a court date scheduled for March 24, 2025.
“This case underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of our children,” said Hempstead County Sheriff James Singleton. “We appreciate the diligence of Sgt. Jeremy McBride and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in ensuring that justice is served.”
The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward. Individuals can contact Investigator Jeremy McBride at 870-777-6727.
