PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. (October 2025) — Robert William Ellerd, a former employee of the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College, has been arrested in connection to a harrowing kidnapping incident in Sherwood, Arkansas, that involved the victim being forced to play Russian roulette at gunpoint. Ellerd, along with two others, is facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery, kidnapping, and terroristic threatening.
What Happened
On September 29, 2025, Sherwood Police arrested 54-year-old Robert Ellerd, alongside brothers Charles Homan, 20, and Jackson Homan, 23, after an 18-year-old male victim reported being abducted, threatened with firearms, and forced to engage in a dangerous game of Russian roulette. The incident unfolded on September 20, when the victim was helping his girlfriend by driving her vehicle from Little Rock to Sherwood.
Upon arriving at his girlfriend’s home, Jackson Homan allegedly attempted to drag the victim from his car, and after a brief struggle, the victim was forced into the back of a car driven by Jackson, with Charles and Ellerd in the front. Once inside, Charles reportedly pointed a gun at the victim while Ellerd, seated in the back, had a pistol in a holster.
The group drove the victim to a house in North Little Rock, during which the victim’s phone was thrown into a pond to prevent him from calling for help. Once at the house, the victim was tied to a chair in the basement with an extension cord. It was here that he was allegedly forced to play Russian roulette, a deadly game where one bullet is placed in a revolver, and players take turns pointing the gun at their head and pulling the trigger.
Who Was Robert William Ellerd?
Robert William Ellerd, 54, was employed as the director of financial aid at the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College until his arrest. A spokesperson for the college confirmed that Ellerd was no longer employed at the institution as of October 1, 2025. The spokesperson stated that the circumstances surrounding his arrest were unrelated to the college.
Ellerd, who had been a staff member at the college for an undisclosed amount of time, is now facing serious charges for his role in the kidnapping and violent act. His arrest has left many in the community shocked, given his professional position and prior public service role.
Career, Legacy, or Background
Ellerd’s career at the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College involved overseeing the financial aid department, where he worked to assist students with obtaining the resources needed to fund their education. His professional reputation, however, is now overshadowed by the horrific allegations surrounding his involvement in the kidnapping case.
While his tenure at the college was marked by administrative work and student support, Ellerd’s personal life and actions, as seen in this shocking event, have dramatically shifted public perception. His arrest has raised concerns over how such behavior was able to go undetected during his employment at the school.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage within both the local community and on social media. Community members, including family and friends of the victim, have expressed their horror at the details of the case. Online discussions have centered around the potential long-term impact on the victim, who was subjected to such traumatic experiences.
Social media users have used hashtags like #JusticeForVictim and #EndViolence to discuss the case and express solidarity with the victim and his family. Many have called for justice, with some expressing disbelief that someone in a trusted public position like Ellerd could be involved in such a heinous act.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
Sherwood Police continue to investigate the incident, with the Homan brothers and Ellerd facing serious charges. Ellerd’s bond has been set at $500,000, and he is expected to face court proceedings soon. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
As for the victim, he was released from the abduction after being taken to North Little Rock High School, where he was able to contact the police. The victim sustained cuts and bruises from being restrained, and the police are continuing to work closely with Child Protective Services to provide necessary services for the young man.
Ellerd’s case is just one example of the shocking consequences that can occur when someone in a position of trust abuses their power. His arrest serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the devastating effects of such violent actions.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Former University of Arkansas Employee Arrested for Allegedly Kidnapping 18-Year-Old and Forcing Him to Play Russian Roulette first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
