JONESBORO, Ark. — A 60-year-old Jonesboro man was arrested Wednesday on a felony charge of sexually grooming a child under the age of 13, according to the Craighead County Sheriff's Office.
Authorities began investigating Tim Dwayne Ohler on May 26 after a child alleged that he had instructed them on sexual matters, normalized certain sexual behaviors, and allowed the child to view pornography on his phone, a probable cause affidavit states. The child later provided further details in an interview at a child advocacy center.
Investigators reviewed a cellphone recording in which Ohler was reportedly confronted about the allegations. According to the affidavit, Ohler denied most of the claims but acknowledged parts of the child’s account. The recording concludes with Ohler admitting he had a problem and agreeing to seek treatment, the document says.
Ohler later described the situation as a “big misunderstanding,” claiming the child had initiated discussions of a sexual nature and that he was uncertain about how to respond, according to the affidavit.
Following the investigation, prosecutors approved a charge of sexually grooming a child, classified as a Class D felony. The charge carries a maximum sentence of six years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. A warrant for Ohler’s arrest was issued on June 17.
During a Rule 8.1 hearing on Wednesday, Special Judge Ralph Wilson set Ohler’s bond at $75,000 cash or surety, as recommended by prosecutors. Court records indicate that Ohler is scheduled to appear in Craighead County Circuit Court at 8:30 a.m. on September 30.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.