New Charges for Psychotherapist Accused of Groping Patients

LAKELAND, FL — A Lakeland psychotherapist arrested in late September for allegedly telling female patients sexual contact by him was part of their therapy faces more criminal charges after four additional victims came forward.

According to the Lakeland Police Department, Anthony H. Conti Jr., 71, has been charged with three additional attempt by a psychotherapist to engage in sex with a client charges and two additional psychotherapist engage in sex with a client charges.

Conti was originally arrested in late September after the first two victims worked with undercover detectives from the police department. One of the victims met with Conti on Sept. 27 at his Tony Conti, M.A. Counseling Center, 1962 E. Edgewood Drive.

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The victim “asked Conti about him touching her during the previous therapy (session),” an email from the police department said. “Conti advised he does this because he is trying to restart the body and he referenced to touching the butt, breasts and vagina. Conti spoke of several other techniques, such as pelvic floor stimulation, and how they help relieve depression.”

Conti was arrested shortly after that September visit.

Police on Wednesday, Oct. 19, said four more victims have now been identified.

“The first three (new) victims all involved ‘messaging/touching therapy’ by Conti letting the victim believe that sexual contact by the him is consistent with or part of the treatment,” a Wednesday email from police said. “The fourth victim, was similar in circumstances and in this case, Conti touched the victim’s genitals on two separate occasions.”

Conti was being held in the Polk County Jail as of Wednesday morning. A first court appearance on the new charges was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

Police believe there could still be more potential victims. Anyone with information is asked to call 863-834-8977. Victim identities are protected by Florida law.

Photo courtesy of the Polk County Jail