White County, Ark. – On Friday, Oct. 23, the White County Sheriff’s Office, working with the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and local police departments, conducted a sting operation aimed at adults attempting to arrange sexual encounters with minors online.
Arrests and Charges
The operation resulted in the arrest of four men. Charles Allen, 58, of Judsonia; Gordon Michaelis, 40, of Beebe; Dodi Diana, 49, of Maryland; and Hunter Cox, 23, of Benton, were taken into custody. A fifth individual remains the subject of an arrest warrant, though the name was not disclosed.
Each suspect is charged with internet stalking of a child, classified as a Class Y felony under Arkansas law. The charges stem from evidence that the men used online platforms to solicit minors, only to encounter law‑enforcement officers posing as youths.
Bonds Set
Judge Mark Pate set bond amounts on Monday, Oct. 26:
- Dodi Diana – $250,000
- Hunter Cox – $125,000
- Gordon Michaelis – $75,000
- Charles Allen – $75,000
Diana, an Indonesian national, also faces an immigration detainer for allegedly overstaying his visa.
Law‑Enforcement Coordination
The operation was directed by Sheriff Phillip Miller and Chief Deputy Clayton Edwards. Partner agencies included the FBI’s Little Rock office, Homeland Security Investigations in Little Rock, the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and police departments from Searcy, Van Buren, and Jonesboro.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Community Impact
This coordinated effort underscores the commitment of local and federal law‑enforcement partners to protect children from online predators. By targeting individuals before any physical meeting could occur, the operation aims to deter future attempts to exploit minors and reassure families that their safety remains a top priority.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant online and report any suspicious activity to the White County Sheriff’s Office.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
