United States Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today, June 3, 2008, that Kristian E. Heller, a resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of transportation by computer of material depicting a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Heller, age 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines advised the court that on January 8, 2004, Heller knowingly transported and shipped in interstate and foreign commerce by computer material depicting a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for September 30, 2008, at 11:00 a.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Pennsylvania State Police, BCI West/Computer Crime, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and the Richland Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Heller.