Authorities say animals taken from ex–A&E reality star Tony McCollister are safe as he faces serious child and animal sex charges.
Authorities in Ohio have confirmed that pets belonging to former reality TV personality Tony McCollister were removed from his home and are now being safely cared for, following his arrest on disturbing criminal charges.
McCollister, who once appeared on A&E’s short-lived 2015 series Neighbors with Benefits, was arrested earlier this week in Warren County. He is facing multiple charges, including pandering obscenity involving a minor and sexual conduct with an animal. Law enforcement officials say the investigation led to the seizure of animals from his possession as a precautionary step.
Warren County Sheriff Barry Riley told TMZ that the animals are currently in protective custody and “are being well cared for.” While officials have not publicly detailed the animals involved, local outlet WLWT5 reported that two dogs were connected to the investigation. Authorities have chosen not to share further details, citing the sensitive nature of the case.
After his arrest, McCollister appeared in court and was granted release after posting a $250,000 bond. As part of his release conditions, the court ordered that he have no contact with children or animals. He is scheduled to return to court next week as the legal process continues.
McCollister became a public figure nearly a decade ago after appearing on Neighbors with Benefits, a reality show that followed a group of suburban couples exploring consensual non-monogamous relationships. The show was pulled from the network after just two episodes due to strong public backlash and controversy.
Attempts by TMZ to reach McCollister for comment have so far gone unanswered. His former wife, Diana McCollister, did respond and clarified that she is no longer married to him.
As the case moves forward, authorities stress that the priority remains the safety of any potential victims, including both minors and animals. Officials have not released additional information, and McCollister is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
