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A single CyberTip led to a Wheeling man being convicted in federal court of producing and distributing child sexual abuse material online and being sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Gage Heckman, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey.
The case began when the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children flagged suspicious activity on an Instagram account. That alert set off an immediate, coordinated investigation by federal and local authorities. Search warrants were executed, electronic devices were seized from Heckman's South Wheeling residence, and investigators uncovered evidence tying him directly to the illegal activity.
"This outcome reflects the commitment of our office and our partners to track down those who exploit children and ensure they face the full force of federal justice," said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Federal officials say the case illustrates how quickly law enforcement can mobilize when a child is at risk--and how a single digital warning can lead straight to a decisive federal response.