A Springdale school bus driver has been arrested on charges of child pornography.
Benton County Sheriff Kelley Cradduck said the investigation started January 15, and they arrested 65-year-old George O'Dea on Tuesday afternoon.
"It takes this individual away from children, and puts him behind bars where he belongs," said Cradduck.
The county's Cyber Crimes Unit received a search warrant for O'Dea's home in Rogers.
"That search warrant produced a computer that had over 500 images of child pornography on it."
O'Dea's job had him interacting with children on a daily basis, so Cradduck's team expedited the investigation.
"It's sickening. As a parent myself of a small little girl and two young boys, it's gut-wrenching to have to sit there and think about how many times that he has had the opportunity to be around children, know where they live, know their names, gain their trust."
O'Dea's wife Linda watched deputies take her husband of 11 years away in handcuffs.
"I just can't describe it... He's a good man and I just can't believe any of this is going on."
She is in disbelief, and waiting for answers.
"My husband's the most honest man I've ever known in my life and I just can't fathom this going on right now... They just came and got him and I'm pretty shook up."
Rick Schaeffer with Springdale Schools said the district acted swiftly when they learned of the investigation.
"He was put on administrative leave and he will stay in that position until the investigation is complete."
Sheriff Cradduck believes O'Dea's arrest sends a clear message.
"We will target you, we will find you, and eventually we will arrest you."
Schaeffer said O'Dea's bus route included Monitor Elementary, Sonora Middle School, and Springdale High School. He also said anybody working in the school district goes through a background check. In addition, there is a state standard employees have to meet and Springdale trains their bus drivers beyond the state standard.
Sheriff Cradduck said investigators are still going through the images to see if there are any local victims. He is also encouraging anyone who feels they may have been victimized in this case to please come forward.
Cradduck said there is no evidence linking Linda O'Dea to any criminal activity, but the investigation is not completely closed. According to the sheriff, if they do come up with any information linking her to crimes, appropriate charges will be filed.
According to deputies, O'Dea recently played Santa Claus and also has grandchildren in the area, but there is no evidence at this time that they are involved in this case.
O'Dea is in the Benton County jail, facing several charges.
