Former Pastor and School Volunteer Indicted on Child Pornography Charges
A former pastor and school volunteer who was booked into the Denton County jail in May has been indicted on possession of child pornography charges, according to court records.
Jim Dale Mustain, who worked as a mentor and volunteer in two Dallas-area school districts, was indicted on four counts of possession or promotion of child pornography, records show.
The arrest-warrant affidavit said the detective who investigated the case found multiple lewd images of children on Mustain’s electronic devices.
His arraignment hearing is scheduled for Aug. 6.
Background and Charges
Mustain, 64, was arrested in Ashe County, N.C., in April and extradited to Texas and booked into Denton County jail on May 14.
He served as a pastor for Preston Trail Community Church from 2019 to 2023 and as associate pastor at Valley Ranch Baptist Church from 2005 to 2014.
Both churches issued email statements after Mustain’s arrest, stating that they were not aware of any of the behaviors related to his charges.
Preston Trail Community Church launched an independent investigation and found no illegal activity by him during his time there.
Valley Ranch Baptist Church also said it had no prior knowledge of any behavior related to the charges.
Volunteer Work and Nonprofit Involvement
Mustain is the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Loving Community.
He worked as a volunteer in Lewisville and Frisco ISDs, and was involved in a mentoring program for students.
Lewisville ISD issued a letter to the families of students who participated in the mentoring program Mustain was involved in, around the time of the arrest.
The letter stated that there is no indication that the allegations involved any of its students or campuses.
Frisco ISD sent out a notification to parents on June 26, according to the guardian notification email obtained by The News.
Legal Representation and Current Status
A private attorney has been assigned to the case, according to court records.
Mustain had declined to have a court-appointed attorney in May, according to the probable cause affidavit obtained by The Dallas Morning News.
Court records show that Denton attorney Josh Healy appears to be representing Mustain.
When contacted for comment by The News Tuesday, Healy said via email: “Can’t really make a comment yet.”
Mustain still remains in jail with bond set at $100,000 for each count, according to Denton County jail records.
Stay Informed
Breaking News
Conclusion
The indictment of Jim Dale Mustain on child pornography charges has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly given his involvement with local schools and churches.
As the case continues to unfold, it is essential to stay informed and aware of the developments.
The safety and well-being of children must always be the top priority, and it is crucial that we take all necessary steps to protect them from harm.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against Jim Dale Mustain?
A: Mustain has been indicted on four counts of possession or promotion of child pornography.
Q: Where did Mustain work as a pastor?
A: Mustain served as a pastor for Preston Trail Community Church from 2019 to 2023 and as associate pastor at Valley Ranch Baptist Church from 2005 to 2014.
Q: Is Mustain still in jail?
A: Yes, Mustain remains in jail with bond set at $100,000 for each count.
Q: What is the status of the case?
A: The case is ongoing, with an arraignment hearing scheduled for Aug. 6.
