The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office has arrested former Blevins School District counselor and intern principal, Justin James Mishler, 33, of Nashville, following a three-month investigation into multiple criminal offenses.
Mishler was arrested on suspicion of the following:
· 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 initiated following reports of inappropriate conduct involving minors. In November of 2024, Mishler, who served as a counselor and interim principal at Blevins High School, resigned in November. At the time of the resignation, Blevins Superintendent Stephanie Dixon said Mishler had submitted his resignation and it was accepted Nov. 11 by the school board. The allegations regarded “potentially inappropriate conduct by an employee, specifically concerning images sent to students,” according to a message sent to parents and guardians.
The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted an extensive inquiry into the allegations, which resulted in the issuance of 15 search warrants for social media platforms and electronic devices used by Mishler.
As a result of the investigation an arrest warrant was issued. Mishler with his attorney surrendered himself to Hempstead County Investigator Sgt. Jeremy Mc Bride on Feb. 12. Mishler appeared before Circuit Judge Joe Short, who set Mishler’s bond at $100,000.00. Mishler was released after posting bond with pending a court date of March 24.
“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 encourages anyone with additional information regarding this case to come forward. Individuals can contact Investigator McBride at 870-777-6727.
As of Tuesday morning, charges against Mishler had not been filed.
