Wheaton College Employee on Unpaid Leave, Charged With Possessing Child Porn

WHEATON, IL - Bond has been set at $250,000 for a Wheaton College employee accused of possessing child pornography.

Benjamin Felker, 28, appeared in bond court this morning following his arrest Tuesday evening. Authorities conducted a search of Felker’s home at 1051 Briarbrook Drive on Tuesday evening and allegedly found at least four videos and multiple images depicting child pornography, according to a DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office press release.

A search warrant was obtained after investigators from the Wheaton Police Department pinpointed Felker’s residence “as one possibly engaging in child pornography.” Felker was at home at the time of the search and was immediately taken into custody, according to the news release.

Felker is on unpaid leave and his access to campus has been revoked, Wheaton College President Philip Ryken said in the news release.

“Wheaton College is disturbed to learn of these troubling charges, and will continue to cooperate fully with the investigating authorities,” Ryken said. “As a Christian community, Wheaton College fundamentally opposes the production and use of pornography, especially child pornography, which by its very nature exploits and victimizes the most vulnerable.”

Felker has been charged with four counts of possession of child pornography. He must post 10 percent of his $250,000 bond to be released from jail.

“The charges against Mr. Felker are absolutely disgusting and will be met with the full force of the law,” Berlin said. “I would like to clarify that these charges are in no way connected with Mr. Felker’s association with Wheaton College. Authorities at the college have been extremely cooperative and helpful and for that I thank them. I would like to thank the Wheaton Police Department, particularly Detective Uhlir, not only for their efforts on this case, but also for their ongoing efforts in policing the Internet for those who would disseminate this filth.”

Felker’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 4, 2016, in front of Judge Robert Miller.

By Amie Rowland (Patch Staff)