Federal authorities have arrested a Tampa-area physician on serious charges related to child exploitation and abuse materials, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Dr. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, of St. Petersburg, was indicted on three counts of producing child sexual abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, he could face life in federal prison.

According to the indictment and supporting court documents, Leedy—who worked in palliative care—allegedly used the online username “maximumuncle#9112” to contact and exploit minors on the internet. Authorities believe he engaged with at least ten minors, directing them to perform sexually explicit acts and, in some cases, encouraging them to self-harm.

Tragically, one of the alleged victims, a minor referred to as Victim 1, was found deceased in 2021 in an apparent suicide that investigators say may have been influenced by online communication with the suspect.

U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg, who announced the charges, emphasized the seriousness of the crimes and the Justice Department’s ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children from online predators.

The arrest comes amid a broader effort by law enforcement and state agencies in Florida to strengthen protections for minors and to crack down on digital platforms being used to harm children. Federal prosecutors are continuing their investigation, and more charges may follow as additional evidence is reviewed.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the authorities.