LAPLACE — A local man is facing two charges in an ongoing child pornography investigation that authorities said victimized a 13-year-old girl.

Bert Heidel, 34, who lives on Whitlow Court in LaPlace, is believed to have made numerous contacts with a female victim over “an extensive period of time” while residing on Hester Drive in LaPlace, authorities said.

Detectives with the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office were notified in February that a 13-year-old female was engaging in sexually explicit images and acts via the Internet and other means of correspondence with an adult male.

Police said the victim resides in another state.

A release from the Sheriff’s Office said detectives identified Heidel as the perpetrator, leading to a warrant and his Monday arrest.

Heidel is charged with computer aided solicitation for sexual purposes and pornography involving a juvenile.

He is being held in custody in lieu of a $45,000 bond.

Detectives said they are investigating evidence recovered during a search of Heidel’s home to determine if other charges will be added.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office TIPS line at 985-359-TIPS, dispatch at 985-652-6338 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.

Those with information may remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward by submitting a tip to stjohnsheriff.org/submitatip.php.