Bradenton Man Sentenced To Life In Prison For Child Exploitation Offenses

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Kathryn K. Mizelle today sentenced Roger Lee Caldwell, Jr. (41, Bradenton) 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. Caldwell was found guilty by a federal jury on February 8, 2024.

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.

Caldwell’s sexual interest in children was confirmed upon law enforcement’s discovery of his collection of child sexual abuse material on a computer located during a search of the family’s home.

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