Roger Lee Caldwell, Jr., Child Exploitation, Florida 2024

Tampa, Florida - In a disturbing case of child exploitation, Roger Lee Caldwell, Jr. (41, Bradenton) was sentenced to life in prison for producing child sexual abuse material, transporting minors with intent to engage in sexual activity, and possession of child sexual abuse material.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Caldwell sexually abused two minor victims over a period of six years and produced an image of one of the minor victims while forcing the victim to engage in a sex act. The image, recovered from Caldwell’s cell phone, depicted Caldwell wearing a uniquely designed belt, the same belt worn by Caldwell at the time of his arrest.

In March 2022, Caldwell travelled alone with both victims, out of state, where he repeatedly sexually abused them. Upon their return to Florida, both victims disclosed the sexual abuse to family members and law enforcement.

The investigation into Caldwell's crimes involved a multi-agency effort, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Bradenton Police Department, the Palmetto Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacie B. Harris, Courtney Derry, Abigail King, and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Lisa Thelwell.

Defendant: Roger Lee Caldwell, Jr.

Criminal Charges: Producing child sexual abuse material, transporting minors with intent to engage in sexual activity, and possession of child sexual abuse material.

City and State: Bradenton, Florida

Exact Date: February 8, 2024 (guilty verdict), March 2022 (travel with victims)

Sentence or Outcome: Life in prison

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/bradenton-man-sentenced-life-prison-child-exploitation-offenses