Man Charged with Sexually Assaulting Easter Bunny in Pittsburgh Mall

Suspect Bera Shivakrishna allegedly groped woman in Easter Bunny costume at South Hills Village Mall

Mar. 27, 2026 at 3:19pm

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A 36-year-old New Jersey man named Bera Shivakrishna has been charged with indecent assault for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman dressed as the Easter Bunny at a mall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. According to the criminal complaint, Shivakrishna approached the Easter Bunny, asked inappropriate questions, and then began touching and groping the woman's chest and breasts before police found him asleep at a nearby AMC theater.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the vulnerability of retail and service workers, especially those in costume, to harassment and assault. It also raises concerns about security and safety protocols at public events and venues where costumed characters interact with the public.

The details

The alleged assault occurred on Monday at the South Hills Village Mall in Pittsburgh. The woman, who was working as the Easter Bunny and taking photos with children and families, said the suspect approached her, asked inappropriate questions, and then began touching her arm, chest, and breasts before she could get away. An assistant who was with the Easter Bunny witnessed the incident. Police later found the suspect, Bera Shivakrishna, asleep at a nearby AMC theater and arrested him on charges of indecent assault.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, March 25, 2026 at the South Hills Village Mall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The players

Bera Shivakrishna

A 36-year-old man from New Jersey who has been charged with indecent assault for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman dressed as the Easter Bunny at a Pittsburgh mall.

The Easter Bunny

A woman working at the South Hills Village Mall in Pittsburgh who was dressed in an Easter Bunny costume and taking photos with children and families when she was allegedly assaulted by the suspect.

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What’s next

The suspect, Bera Shivakrishna, is expected to appear in court on Wednesday for a bail hearing to determine if he will be released pending trial.

The takeaway

This disturbing incident serves as a reminder of the need for stronger protections and security measures to safeguard retail and service workers, especially those in vulnerable positions like costumed characters interacting with the public. Employers and venues must prioritize the safety and wellbeing of their staff.