A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh indicted Robert William Bauer, a 65-year-old resident of Millvale, Pennsylvania, on Mar. 23 for alleged violations of federal law concerning the sexual exploitation of a minor, according to United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
The case is significant as it addresses serious allegations involving the transportation and possession of child sexual abuse material, an issue that remains a priority for law enforcement agencies.
The indictment states that Bauer allegedly transported child sexual abuse material via interstate commerce on or about February 23, 2024. It also alleges that he knowingly possessed such material on or about November 13, 2025. The charges carry a maximum possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching $500,000. Actual sentencing would depend on the seriousness of the offenses and any prior criminal history under federal guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is handling the prosecution for the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to these charges.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. Project Safe Childhood brings together resources from various levels of government to prosecute offenders and assist victims.
Authorities remind the public that an indictment is only an accusation; Bauer is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
