Defendant Sentenced on Child Pornography Charges

Zachary R. Wheeler, 23, of Fairfield, IL, was recently sentenced to federal prison on child pornography related charges, announced Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, today.

On December 15, 2016, Wheeler was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment and five years’ supervised release following his imprisonment. Wheeler had previously pleaded guilty to a federal indictment charging him with five counts of production of child pornography.

All five counts charge Wheeler with the production of child pornography involving a minor girl under the age of 18. The dates on which Wheeler is charged with production of child pornography, all of which occurred in 2014, are May 31, June 12, June 13, June 16, and June 17.

The investigation in this case was conducted by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. The Franklin County State’s Attorney Office assisted in the investigation of this case.

Wheeler’s guilty plea and subsequent sentencing serve as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions when it comes to the exploitation of children. We will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.

The Southern District of Illinois will remain committed to protecting the community from these heinous crimes.

This case is a testament to the tireless work of law enforcement agencies in protecting the community from crimes involving the exploitation of children.

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