Benton County, Ark. – Former state representative Austin McCollum, the sole candidate for Benton County judge, was released from the county jail on Tuesday after posting a $150,000 cash‑only bond on one charge and a $75,000 bond on a second charge. The judge’s order also requires McCollum to wear an electronic ankle monitor.
Protection order restrictions
The court updated the existing protection order on Monday, prohibiting McCollum from coming within 1,500 feet of his family’s church or school and within 350 feet of a local daycare. The tighter distance around the daycare reflects the fact that McCollum’s residence is near that facility.
Case background
McCollum was first arrested on August 1 on charges of aggravated assault on a family or household member, domestic battery and false imprisonment. An affidavit filed with the court links the current allegations to incidents that occurred on September 22, 28 and 29.
On September 22, a school open house was scheduled with tours beginning at 9 a.m. McCollum’s wife signed up for the 9 a.m. tour, but after initially notifying lawyers that he would not attend, McCollum later registered for an 11 a.m. tour. Surveillance video shows him arriving an hour early, looking into his wife’s car in the parking lot, and entering the school while his wife was still inside.
On September 28, a witness reported seeing McCollum driving through the parking lot of a daycare during the time his wife typically picks up their children. The following day, his wife kept the children out of the daycare. Yet investigators say McCollum was again observed walking on the sidewalk across from the daycare during a normal morning drop‑off period.
When questioned, McCollum denied being at the school before his scheduled 11 a.m. time on September 22 and remained silent about the daycare parking lot observation on September 28. He claimed he was attending an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at a church connected to the daycare on September 29, but investigators found no record of such a meeting at that time.
New charges and bond set
The judge set a $150,000 bond for the new charges of stalking and violation of the protection order. Prosecutors have filed a motion to revoke McCollum’s release, indicating that the legal process is ongoing.
Political implications
McCollum remains the only candidate in the race for Benton County judge. If he wins the upcoming election, he could still assume the judgeship despite the pending criminal matters.
The case underscores the importance of accountability for public officials and the role of the courts in protecting families and children. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the proceedings and to participate in the upcoming election to ensure their voices are heard.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
