DPS and HSI Arrest Former Educator in Child Exploitation Case, Seeking information on Additional Victims

ABILENE – The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID), in partnership with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating a case involving crimes against children that led to the arrest of a suspect on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025.

Investigators arrested Robert Jerome Custer (56), of Abilene, on a federal charge of accessing child pornography. Custer previously worked as an educator and counselor in Palestine, Barksdale, Kingsville and Abilene, Texas. He was not employed as a teacher or counselor at the time of his arrest.

Investigators are seeking information from potential unreported victims from Custer’s time as an educator or camp counselor. Anyone with information is urged to contact the DPS CID office in Abilene at 325-795-4070.

This arrest highlights DPS’s commitment in protecting vulnerable individuals and holding offenders who exploit children accountable for their actions.

This case remains under investigation.  No further information is currently available.