On September 16, 2025, members of the Invictus Task Force initiated an investigation related to a report of child exploitation made by the Morganton Police Department. During the course of the investigation, Michael Lee Lester was identified as a suspect.
On September 16, 2025, a search warrant related to the exploitation was executed by members of the Invictus Task Force and the Morganton Police Department in Davidson County. Michael Lee Lester was subsequently taken into custody and charged with (2) two counts of Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. Lester was transported to the Davidson County Detention Center, where the magistrate issued a $5,000 secure bond and set a first appearance in Davidson County District Court for October 06, 2025. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office Invictus Task Force representatives.
Name of Defendant:
Michael Lee Lester
Thomasville N.C. Age 22
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The Invictus Task Force is a joint effort of Randolph, Alamance, Davidson, and Forsyth Counties, the State Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security in the fight against internet crimes against children (ICAC), sexual abuse, trafficking, and the exploitation of children using a collaboration of resources as a force multiplier.
www.theinvictusproject.org
IF YOU BELIEVE YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW MAY BE A VICTIM OF CHILD EXPLOITATION OR TRAFFICKING, Call the national hotline for 24/7 assistance. 1-888-373-7888 or text "HELP" to 233733
