Nicholson man indicted on federal child exploitation charges

SCRANTON, LACKWANNA CO. (WOLF) — A man from Wyoming County is facing federal charges after investigators say he used the internet to exploit a minor.

Christopher Vieira, 37, of Nicholson, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges including production of child sexual abuse material, online enticement of a minor, and receipt of illegal images.

According to prosecutors, Vieira is accused of using electronic devices to communicate with a minor and persuade them to engage in sexual activity and create explicit content. Authorities also allege he received illegal material on two occasions in early January.

The FBI investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tatum Wilson.

Officials say the charges carry significant penalties, including the possibility of life in prison if Vieira is convicted.

The case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide effort to combat child exploitation and identify victims.

Vieira is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.