Joel Schoepf, the former assistant road manager for country music artist Parker McCollum, has been arrested in New Braunfels, Texas, on charges related to the online solicitation of a minor under the age of 14. The incident reportedly took place on November 13, with Schoepf being transferred to Comal County Jail shortly after. He was subsequently released on a $50,000 surety bond the following day. Due to the sensitive nature of the allegations, information surrounding the case remains limited.
Following the arrest, McCollum moved swiftly to part ways with Schoepf, a decision likely influenced by the severity of the charges. Schoepf’s career spanned several roles within the Texas country music scene, including his time as stage and production manager for Dickson Productions and as a stage manager for popular acts like Cross Canadian Ragweed and Cody Canada and The Departed.
The arrest was the result of a sting operation conducted by Alex Rosen, the founder of Predator Poachers, an organization known for its controversial undercover efforts to catch alleged online predators. In a recorded video, Rosen claimed to have caught Schoepf conversing with a 13-year-old boy on Reddit, during which Schoepf reportedly admitted to exchanging pornographic materials involving minors.
While the charges are serious, it is crucial to emphasize that Schoepf is considered innocent until proven guilty. This situation marks a challenging moment for Parker McCollum, who has had a remarkably successful year in 2023, having released his fifth studio album and completed a nationwide tour. Despite this setback, McCollum expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support and engagement throughout his performances, reflecting on the highlights and cherished moments of his year in country music. As he looks forward to 2026, there remains a hopeful spirit within the community, emphasizing the power of resilience in facing adversity.