Seven Southland men were arrested Tuesday as part of an eight-month federal and local investigation that led to charges being filed against 55 people who allegedly possessed or produced child pornography.

Fifty-five men, including a former sheriff's deputy and at least one attorney, were charged with possessing child pornography following an eight-month investigation, authorities said Tuesday.

San Luis Obispo County Deputy Sheriff Bryan Goossens was arrested Monday by federal agents as part of a widespread roundup of suspected members of a child pornography ring.