Pipe Bomb, 50 Firearms Found During Child Exploitation Investigation, ASP Says

GAMALIEL, Ark. — The Arkansas State Police (ASP), in coordination with the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, has arrested Michael Raymond Wamser Jr., 61, of Gamaliel, following an investigation into child exploitation offenses.

Special Agents with ASP Criminal Investigation Division executed a search warrant at Wamser’s residence on Monday, April 27, 2026. During the investigation, Wamser admitted to owning multiple online accounts used to download and view child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

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During the search, investigators also discovered an improvised explosive device (pipe bomb) inside a closet near the master bedroom. The device was located in close proximity to controlled substances. The Bentonville Police Department Bomb Squad responded to the scene, safely removed the device, and later conducted a controlled detonation.

Investigators also found psychedelic mushrooms, kratom, and drug paraphernalia.

Approximately 50 firearms were also seized from the residence.

Wamser was transported to the Baxter County Detention Center, where he is being held on a $400,000 bond. He faces multiple felony charges, including:

• 15 counts of Possession or Viewing of Matter Depicting Sexually Explicit Conduct Involving a Child
• 34 counts of Possession of Visual Medium Depicting Sexually Explicit Conduct Involving a Child
• Possession of an Explosive Device
• Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms
• Two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver
• Two counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The investigation, which originated from a cybertip submitted to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, remains ongoing with additional charges expected.