Doctor facing federal charges after allegedly sexually exploiting minors, telling girl to hang herself

Serious federal charges have been brought against a Tampa, Florida, palliative care specialist doctor. Stephen Leedy, 59, is accused by authorities of manipulating and taking advantage of minors through online platforms.

Using the alias “maximumuncle#9112,” Leedy allegedly conversed online with roughly ten children. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the juveniles were forced to produce sexually explicit self-portraits during these encounters. In addition, Leedy is charged with giving these young victims terrifying instructions that encouraged them to harm themselves by choking, cutting, or even attempting suicide.

Court documents show a troubling pattern of online grooming, the Tampa Bay Times reported. During these exchanges, Leedy is accused of carefully hiding who he really was. According to reports, he used video chat to interact with his victims while keeping his screen black to further hide his identity.

According to the prosecution, Leedy’s actions caused his young victims great physical and psychological harm. They contend that he brutally took advantage of these defenseless kids for his own pleasure.

There was a tragic incident in November 2021 that highlights the seriousness of the situation. According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, one of the young victims tragically committed suicide in front of their phone camera after receiving Leedy’s instructions. According to reports, investigators found digital evidence that supported the victim’s and Leedy’s communications.

Leedy is facing a serious indictment that includes two counts of luring minors into sexual activity and three counts of creating material that depicts child sexual abuse. According to court documents, he was arrested on December 20th after being indicted on October 24th. A conviction could land you in federal prison for the rest of your life.

Leedy’s legal team stressed the value of the presumption of innocence in response to these grave accusations. They declared their intention to vigorously defend Dr. Leedy in court and enter a not guilty plea.

The community is still in shock over Dr. Leedy’s arrest. As the Chief Administrative Officer of the Pinellas County Juvenile Welfare Board, his wife occupies a significant role. In a statement, the board expressed its deep shock and incredulity at these charges.

As reported by FOX 13 WTVT-TV, Leedy formerly held the position of chief medical officer at a hospice facility operated by Empath Health. The organization clarified in a statement that he had not been affiliated with them for more than a decade, further noting, “while there has been minimal professional interaction with him since then, he has not been employed by Empath Health for more than a decade. We have faith in the legal process to address this matter and remain focused on supporting our communities with extraordinary and compassionate care.”