Belton, TX – A former Belton ISD teacher has been arrested and charged in connection with recordings of multiple female students made without their knowledge. Officials confirmed that 39-year-old Pietro Victor Giustino was taken into custody on Monday in Bexar County on two warrants for state-jail felony invasive visual recording.
Teacher Taken Into Custody in Bexar County in Connection to Federal Child Exploitation Case
The new charges trace back to a separate federal investigation. In July, Giustino was arrested by the FBI for allegedly possessing and attempting to possess child sexual abuse material. Federal prosecutors stated that the materials involved minors, but none of the victims were local Belton students.
Cellphone Videos Lead to New Allegations
During the federal investigation, FBI agents uncovered 13 cellphone videos. These clips were turned over to Belton police, who determined they showed “invasive visual recordings of several female students without their apparent knowledge.” Working with school staff, investigators were able to identify the girls as students of Belton High School, where Giustino was previously employed.
School and Police Notify Parents After Videos Surface of Female Students
Authorities and district officials have notified the families of students appearing in the recordings. Belton police said that parents who have not been contacted should assume their children are not involved.
Giustino Awaiting Transfer After Arrest
Giustino remains in custody following his most recent arrest and is expected to be transferred to Bell County Jail at a later date.
Legal Options for Families After Teacher Abuse
Families reeling from the arrest of former Belton ISD teacher Pietro Victor Giustino are left grappling with questions about accountability and recovery. Texas lawyer Anjali Nigam discusses the legal avenues available to students and their families, from criminal actions against the offender to potential civil claims aimed at supporting victims and holding institutions responsible.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: With incidents like this happening in a high school setting, what legal steps are available for students and their families?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Families can take both criminal and civil action. The state is already prosecuting Mr. Giustino on felony charges, but the students involved may also have grounds for civil claims against him directly. Beyond that, they could potentially bring claims against the school district if there was any failure to protect them or to act on warning signs.
Banville: So this could mean more than just holding the individual accountable?
Nigam: Exactly. Civil lawsuits can help victims and their families recover damages for emotional trauma, counseling costs, and long-term impacts. While criminal prosecution focuses on punishment, civil actions aim to provide meaningful recovery for those harmed.
Banville: For parents who are unsure right now, what should they do?
Nigam: Consulting with an attorney experienced in abuse cases is a safe step. Early legal guidance can help families understand their rights, evaluate the facts, and ensure their children’s well-being is prioritized.
Support and Guidance for Families
Students and families impacted by teacher abuse deserve to have their voices heard and their rights protected. If you believe your child may have been affected, our legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your options and take the first step toward accountability and recovery.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
