Doctor Sentenced For Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Materials
- Dignity 4Patients
- Oct 1
- 1 min read
By Madeline Bartos - KDKA News - 02.10.2025 - [Dr. Ashok Panigrahy] - [USA]
A former doctor at UPMC Children's Hospital pleaded guilty to child pornography charges, federal prosecutors announced on Wednesday.
Fifty-three-year-old Ashok Panigrahy, who was the radiologist in chief at Children's Hospital, pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti said.
In November of 2022, prosecutors said Panigrahy "knowingly possessed images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor."
Panigrahy was indicted in September of last year, and UPMC said when it learned about the investigation, Panigrahy was placed on administrative leave and later terminated.
Sentencing for Panigrahy is scheduled for July 17. He could face up to 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.
The Homeland Security Investigations in Pittsburgh and Chicago conducted the investigation that led to Panigrahy's prosecution. The Department of Justice says the case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, which is a nationwide initiative that marshals federal, state and local resources to bring to justice people who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article and were abused in state run medical and health facilities, you can contact Dignity4Patients, whose helpline is open Monday to Thursday, 10am to 4pm.
Dignity4Patients Commentary: A Doctor holds a position of power over patients, it is their responsibility as a practitioner to adhere to their duty of care and ensure the safety and wellbeing of their patients.
