BATON ROUGE - A pediatric cardiologist pled guilty Wednesday to one count of possession of pornography involving children and could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. 

Antonio "Tony" Belda, a pediatrician who worked at Our Lady of the Lake, pled guilty to the charge in federal court. 

Investigators said Belda had 171 pornographic videos and just over 3,000 pornographic images, some involving the sexual assault of children as young as 8. 

Once sentenced, he could face a maximum term of 20 years and a $250,000 fine. However, the judge delayed his sentencing so a further investigation could be conducted. 

Belda, an Ontario, Canada, native, may also be deported from the country upon completing his sentence. 

WBRZ asked Belda's attorneys David Rozas and Eric Hayes for comment. Hayes declined to speak and said it was out of respect for the family.

WBRZ also asked Belda's family for comment. They also declined to comment on the case, asking people to respect their privacy and said that the family was praying for Belda.

Belda could also face supervised release and would also have to register as a sex offender. The former doctor will also have to turn over any property he used to acquire the child porn.

In court, it was mentioned that Belda may also have to pay restitution to his victims but there was no word on what that might look like.

Court documents show Belda tried several days ago to delay pleading guilty, citing doctors' appointments for his infant son and time for Belda to get his affairs in order.

WBRZ also reached out to Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, where Belda was terminated from employment in 2022 upon discovery of the investigation. Director of Public Relations Alexandra Deiro Stubbs gave the following statement:

“We remain shocked at these disturbing allegations and actions. When we were initially made aware of his arrest and charges over two years ago, he was immediately terminated with no further patient or staff contact. Our physician hiring process is extremely rigorous and includes background checks, multiple reference checks and other nationally recognized best practices. As always, the safety and care of our patients and team members is our top priority.”