BENTON — A 22-year-old Fairfield man has pleaded guilty in federal court to five counts unlawful production of child pornography.

Zachary R. Wheeler was indicted in August on charges he produced child pornography involving a minor girl under the age of 18. The dates on which Wheeler is charged with production of child pornography, which occurred in 2014, are May 31, June 12, June 13, June 16, and June 17.

Wheeler remains in federal custody pending an August 3 sentencing date.

With respect to each Count, if convicted, Wheeler faces a minimum sentence of fifteen years, up to a maximum of thirty years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years.

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

The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.