Florida Doctor Charged with Exploitation and Harm of Minors Online

Florida doctor facing allegations linked to a tragic incident involving a young girl. (Photo credit: Law and Crime)

A Florida doctor is facing multiple charges for allegedly exploiting minors he connected with on social media, directing them to harm themselves while he observed via video chat. Stephen Leedy, 59, of St. Petersburg, is accused of actions that tragically led to the death of a 13-year-old girl.

According to the Justice Department, Leedy, a palliative care doctor, used the username “maximumuncle#9112” to target approximately ten minors online. Prosecutors allege he instructed the victims to perform inappropriate acts and engage in self-harm, with one minor reportedly passing away in November 2021 after following his instructions. The indictment, filed on December 26, charges Leedy with three counts of producing explicit material involving minors and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence.

Prosecutors detailed how Leedy’s predatory behavior involved instructing minors via social media and video chats.

They allege that he directed victims to harm themselves using household items. In one instance, he reportedly messaged a minor asking her to engage in harmful actions daily.

Law enforcement, including the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and FBI, confirmed Leedy’s connection to the social media account linked to these activities. Victims interviewed by investigators identified themselves in conversations with Leedy and corroborated his instructions.

Leedy’s behavior, described by prosecutors as a severe threat to community safety, prompted his arrest in October 2023. Although his professional identity as a doctor specializing in hospice and palliative care remained unknown to his victims, prosecutors argued he used anonymity and deceit to commit these acts.

The indictment highlights the disturbing nature of the charges, alleging that Leedy sought complete control over his victims, referring to them as “obedient” and requesting to be addressed as “my Lord.”

Leedy has been practicing medicine in Florida since 1991, according to state health records. He remains in custody pending trial.

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