Benjamin Wiele, 40, of Kerman was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of possessing and distributing child sex abuse material.
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A Fresno-area man was arrested on suspicion of owning and sharing inappropriate materials depicting minors.
Benjamin Wiele, 40, of Kerman was arrested Wednesday, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tony Botti said. Wiele was charged with possessing and distributing child sex abuse material.
Detectives with the Kerman Police Department began investigating Wiele in July 2026 following a tip from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. They eventually executed a search warrant and arrested Wiele, Botti said.
According to Fresno County Jail booking records, Kerman officers arrested Wiele near Belmont and Lassen avenues around 7:30 a.m.
Benjamin Wiele, 40, of Kerman was arrested for possessing and distributing child sex abuse material Wednesday. Fresno County Sheriff’s Office
Detectives seized electronics believed to contain evidence, and the investigation is continuing.
Anyone with information related to the case can contact Kerman police Sgt. Patrick Clark at 559-550-0798.
The Fresno Bee
Nick Fenley is a reporter covering education, lawsuits, breaking news and more for The Fresno Bee. He’s originally from the Imperial Valley and joined The Bee in 2025.