Tony McCollister, 43, has been arrested and charged with pandering obscenity involving a minor and sexual conduct with an animal, according to court records. Prosecutors say the alleged crimes took place on Nov. 23.
McCollister previously appeared on A&E’s reality series Neighbors with Benefits, which aired in 2015. The show followed the lives of swinger couples living in southwest Ohio. It was pulled after just two episodes following strong viewer backlash.
Allegations outlined by prosecutors
Court documents allege that McCollister knowingly uploaded child sexual abuse material to his Google account. He is also accused of engaging in sexual conduct with two dogs he owned.
The obscenity charge involving a minor is a felony and carries severe penalties. If convicted, McCollister could face up to eight years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Court appearance and bond
McCollister was arraigned Thursday in Warren County court. A judge set his bond at $250,000 and ordered that he have no contact with children or animals while the case is pending. His next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Second person charged
Court filings list McCollister’s address as a home on Lavender Way near South Lebanon. The property is owned by Erica Grove, who is also facing a charge of sexual conduct with an animal, according to Warren County prosecutors.
Grove has not been arrested, but records indicate she was served with a court summons on Dec. 23, the same day McCollister was taken into custody. Her charge is a misdemeanor and is currently the only count filed against her.
Grove is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday at 1 p.m.
Limited details released
Authorities have not released additional details about the alleged crimes or explained the relationship between McCollister and Grove. Grove did not appear on Neighbors with Benefits, and prosecutors have not commented further.
The case remains under investigation as both defendants prepare to return to court.
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