Parker McCollum Dismisses Crew Member for Online Minor Solicitation Charge
Parker McCollum has terminated Joel Schoepf, a member of his touring crew, following Schoepf’s arrest on November 13. The charge was related to online solicitation of a minor, specifically under the age of 14. Schoepf, who served as McCollum’s assistant road manager at the time, was let go immediately after the allegations surfaced.
Arrest Details
The arrest of Schoepf was part of a sting operation conducted by Predator Poachers, a vigilante group in Texas. According to reports, Schoepf believed he was meeting a 13-year-old boy at a McDonald’s in New Braunfels, Texas. The encounter led to his arrest by local police, who subsequently took him to Comal County Jail.
Legal Proceedings
- Arrest Date: November 13, 2023
- Charge: Online solicitation of a minor under 14 (second-degree felony)
- Bond Set: $50,000
- Released: November 14, 2023
Following his release, Schoepf’s legal team filed a letter of representation and a request for discovery on November 25.
Joel Schoepf’s Background
Schoepf has a notable history in the Texas country music scene. He has worked as a tour and production manager for several artists and events. His profile includes:
- Assistant road manager for Parker McCollum for nearly three years.
- Guitar tech for McCollum since July 2021.
- Production manager for Willie Nelson’s Luck Reunion Festival since 2012.
- Tour manager for Reckless Kelly from 2020 to 2022.
- Past roles with Cross Canadian Ragweed and Cody Canada’s band The Departed.
This incident marks the first significant legal trouble for Schoepf beyond a past misdemeanor charge for drug possession in 2003.
