On Monday, a man was sentenced to 50 years in prison following an investigation that began after a teenager discovered a hidden camera in a bathroom.
46-year-old Justin Elliott Lee pleaded guilty to five counts involving illegal images of a minor. Prosecutors say Lee also admitted guilt to five additional counts and an aggravated offense involving a child.
The investigation began in August 2024, when the Madison County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home in North Zulch after authorities were notified that a 15-year-old had discovered a hidden camera in a family bathroom.
Investigators later obtained a search warrant for Lee’s phone and reported finding images and recordings of the teenager. According to prosecutors, investigators also recovered recordings showing Lee placing cameras facing the shower. Another hidden camera was found in the living room, where the teenager had been sleeping.
Madison County Sheriff’s Investigator Carly Foster led the investigation, with assistance from investigators Steve Jeter and Blake Baldobino.
District Judge David Moorman sentenced Lee to a total of 50 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Lee must serve half of the sentence before becoming eligible for parole and will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Lee, who prosecutors say had no prior criminal history, remains in the Madison County Jail awaiting transfer to state prison.
Madison County District Attorney Courtney Cain said, “The victim in this case showed such strength and courage. She was being sexually abused and recorded by someone she trusted. I am thankful that the victim did not have to testify and relive this trauma. I am also glad that the Defendant is off the streets of Madison County for a long time and where he deserves to be – prison!”
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