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A former educator at Belton High School, located at 600 Lake Rd, Belton, TX 76513, is now facing serious legal trouble after being accused of recording female students without their knowledge. Pietro Victor Giustino, 39, was arrested Monday in Bexar County on two warrants for state-jail felony invasive visual recording, according to Fox 7 Austin.
This arrest stems from a broader federal case in which Giustino was taken into custody by the FBI in July. Federal authorities allege he possessed and attempted to obtain child sexual abuse material, including explicit depictions of minors. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the material in the federal case is unrelated to local students. However, during the investigation, the FBI discovered 13 cellphone videos that were shared with Belton police, leading to these new charges.
Belton police confirmed that the videos contained invasive recordings of several female students at Belton High School. These recordings were reportedly made without the students’ knowledge. With the assistance of school staff, police have identified the girls in the footage as local students.
Authorities have contacted the parents of the students identified in the recordings. Belton police have reassured the community that if families have not been contacted, their children are not believed to be involved in the case.
Giustino is expected to be transferred to the Bell County Jail at a later date as the investigation continues. Both local and federal authorities are working to ensure accountability in this deeply troubling case.
When a trusted teacher violates the safety of students, families face difficult decisions about how to respond. Texas sexual abuse attorney Anjali Nigam shares important information about the legal options available to those impacted, explaining how families can address the harm caused and hold responsible parties accountable.
Editor Darla Medina: When cases like this emerge, what legal options do victims and their families have to address the harm caused?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims and their families can explore both criminal and civil avenues. On the criminal side, the prosecution ensures the offender is held accountable under the law. But in civil cases, families can seek compensation for the emotional and psychological harm caused. This often involves filing lawsuits against the individual perpetrator, and in some cases, the school district, if negligence or failure to protect students is proven.
Medina: When it comes to schools, what responsibilities do they have in preventing such incidents?
Nigam: Schools have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for students. If there are gaps in policies, lack of proper vetting, or a failure to act on warning signs, the district could be held liable. It's critical for schools to implement thorough safeguards, such as staff training, monitoring, and clear reporting mechanisms, to prevent such incidents.
Medina: What advice would you give to families affected by situations like this?
Nigam: First, prioritize the child’s well-being by seeking counseling or emotional support services. Then, consult with an attorney experienced in these cases to understand your rights and options. Legal action can not only provide justice but also help initiate systemic changes to protect other students in the future.
If your child has been harmed by an educator, you have the right to take action. Our team is here to offer guidance, support, and legal advocacy every step of the way. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore the options available to protect your family’s future.
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