Man Accused of Groping Mall Easter Bunny

Suspect allegedly touched costumed worker during photo session in Pittsburgh

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:30pm

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A 36-year-old New Jersey man has been charged with indecent assault after allegedly groping a woman working in an Easter Bunny costume at a mall in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Police say security footage helped identify the suspect, who was found asleep in a nearby theater and claimed his actions were a 'mistake.'

Why it matters

Incidents of harassment or assault against retail and service workers, especially those in costume, have become an increasing concern for businesses and communities. This case highlights the need for heightened security and training to protect vulnerable employees.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, the suspect, Shivakrishna Bera, ignored the Easter Bunny worker's attempts to redirect his questions to an assistant, then touched her arm, upper chest, and breasts. The assistant said Bera also jammed his fingers into the costume's nose and mouth. Police were able to identify Bera using mall security footage and found him asleep in a nearby AMC theater, where he allegedly claimed his actions were a 'mistake' and lamented being caught because he 'wouldn't have been caught' if he hadn't stopped to watch a movie.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, March 25, 2026 at the South Hills Village mall in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.
  • Bera is scheduled for a court hearing on Thursday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Shivakrishna Bera

A 36-year-old man from New Jersey who has been charged with indecent assault for allegedly groping a woman working in an Easter Bunny costume at a mall in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Easter Bunny worker

A woman working in a full-body Easter Bunny costume at the South Hills Village mall in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, who was allegedly groped by the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“It's a doll, right?”

— Shivakrishna Bera

“If I did not watch a movie here, I wouldn't have been caught.”

— Shivakrishna Bera

What’s next

Bera is being held on $10,000 bail and is scheduled for a court hearing on Thursday, March 28, 2026.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing need for heightened security and training to protect retail and service workers, especially those in vulnerable positions like costumed characters, from harassment and assault. Businesses must prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees to foster a safe and respectful work environment.