Overview of the Case

In a troubling development, Lee Hughes, a third-grade teacher in Pinellas County, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on a serious charge related to the attempted transmission of harmful material to a minor. The charges stem from an interaction he had with an undercover agent posing as a nine-year-old child.

Details of the Indictment

The indictment, filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, reports that Hughes initiated contact with the undercover agent in June 2024. Their exchanges became increasingly inappropriate, with Hughes expressing a desire for “nude time at the home.”

Hughes showed a troubling interest in a sexually open household and offered to babysit the fictitious child. The messages included alarming comments such as, “I’d definitely love her on my lap lol,” which highlight the seriousness of the allegations against him.

Incriminating Communications

Throughout the subsequent months, Hughes reportedly continued to communicate with the undercover agent, making various indecent propositions. He allegedly sent ten explicit images and videos to the agent and asked whether they should be shown to the supposed nine-year-old victim.

In one significant exchange, after receiving a fully clothed image of the child, Hughes responded with an explicit photo of himself, stating, “should show and see if she likes lol.” These communications culminated in his arrest when he agreed to meet the underage child on May 1, 2025.

Immediate Consequences

The day following his arrest, Hughes was dismissed from his position at Pinellas Prep Academy. This swift action underscores the gravity of the allegations, especially considering his role as an educator and his access to young children.

ABC Action News has decided to publicize Hughes’ mugshot, given the serious nature of his actions and his direct influence over children around the age of the alleged target.

Conclusion

This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential threats that can exist in educational environments. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of children within the community.