Marissa Lynn Segal, Distributing Child Porn, Pennsylvania 2026

Pittsburgh Resident Admits to Distributing Child Porn, Faces Up to 30 Years in Prison

A 31-year-old Pittsburgh resident has pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, marking a significant blow to the city's efforts to combat online child exploitation. Marissa Lynn Segal, 31, pleaded guilty on January 12, 2026, to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Segal distributed material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, including photographs and videos of infant victims and victims engaged in acts of bestiality, via a mobile application on July 14, 2025. Additionally, Segal possessed child sexual abuse material, including images and videos depicting prepubescent minors.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Segal.

The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court ordered Segal detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service. Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for April 27, 2026.

The case highlights the importance of continued efforts to combat online child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of our communities. As this case moves forward, the community can be assured that those responsible for such heinous crimes will be held accountable.

Mandatory Facts:

1. Defendant/Respondent Name: Marissa Lynn Segal.

2. Exact Criminal Charges: Distributing and possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

3. City and State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

4. Exact Date: July 14, 2025 (crime date), January 12, 2026 (guilty plea), and April 27, 2026 (sentencing).

5. Sentence or Outcome: Up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both, pending sentencing.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/pittsburgh-resident-pleads-guilty-distribution-and-possession-child-sexual-abuse