WWW arkcity.net

Ark City man indicted on pornography counts

By CHRIS ROBINETTE
Traveler Correspondent

A federal grand jury has indicated Arkansas City resident Wayne Zimmerman on charges that he possessed child pornography and for "receiving and distributing" child pornography, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Wichita.

The indictment states that the beginning of the crimes are not known, however Zimmerman continued to receive, distribute and possess child pornography through July 17, 2007. The indictment defines child pornography as "visual depictions of minors ... engaging in sexually explicit conduct."

The possession charges hold a possibility of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000; the receiving and distribution charges allow for five to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 as well.

Zimmerman has not made any statements and has not been arrested yet, Jim Cross, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney, said Wednesday. The case was investigated by the Wichita Police Department; Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is the prosecutor. Attempts to contact Zimmerman were unsuccessful.