Gallatin, TN – A former Sumner County elementary school custodian has been convicted on 38 felony counts after attempting to sexually exploit a 10-year-old student, according to the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office.
On December 18, 2024, deputies arrested Tracy Lee Crews after he allegedly gave a locked cellphone to a student at J.W. Wiseman Elementary School. The child’s parent discovered the device and alerted school officials, who then contacted law enforcement.
Investigators said Crews admitted his intent was for the student to access pornographic material on the phone and create child sexual abuse material to send back to him. A search of his vehicle turned up a greeting card addressed to the child that included a handwritten note, $20, and the phone’s passcode. Forensic analysis of the phone uncovered dozens of pornographic images and videos, further strengthening the case.
Last week, a Sumner County jury returned guilty verdicts on one count of Attempted Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, one count of Solicitation of a Minor to Commit Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation, and 36 counts of Attempted Exploitation of a Minor Under 13 by Electronic Means.
Crews now faces up to 156 years in prison without the possibility of parole or early release. Sentencing is scheduled for November 24, 2025, before Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Nichols.
Officials credited the Sheriff’s Special Investigations Unit, the District Attorney’s Office, and local child advocacy groups for their coordinated efforts in securing the conviction.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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