North Hills Man Indicted for Attempted Coercion of a Minor for Sex

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal child exploitation laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Vikash Mishra, 40, of Ross Township, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about October 30, 2021, until on or about February 25, 2022, Vikash is alleged to have attempted to coerce and entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.

The law provides for a minimum total sentence of 10 years in prison, up to a term of life, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.