![\"Stephen](\"https:\/\/www.tampafp.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Stephen-Andrew-Leedy.png\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a>ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.<\/strong> – A Tampa Bay area palliative care doctor has been arrested and indicted on federal charges related to the production of child sexual abuse material and the online enticement of minors. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, of St. Petersburg, faces a potential life sentence if convicted on all counts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced the indictment, which alleges that Leedy used the online alias “maximumuncle#9112” to exploit and victimize approximately ten minors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to court documents, Leedy engaged in online conversations and video chats with minors, instructing them to produce sexually explicit images of themselves and directing them to engage in self-harm, including cutting, choking, and hanging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n READ: Court In Georgia To Decide Fate Of Florida Drag Show Law Amidst Restaurant Closure<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The indictment reveals a tragic connection to Leedy’s alleged actions. In November 2021, a minor identified as “Minor Victim 1” was found deceased, having hanged herself in front of her phone. The manner of her death is reportedly consistent with instructions Leedy had previously given her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This disturbing case has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly given Leedy’s profession as a palliative care physician, a role focused on providing comfort and support to patients facing serious illnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the FBI Tampa and Atlanta offices, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Holly Springs Police Department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism<\/a>. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Connect with us:<\/strong> Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook<\/a> and Twitter<\/a> for breaking news and updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n