Man Arrested and Sentenced to Six Years for Blackmail and Trespassing Incident Involving Woman
LUBBOCK, TEXAS — A man has been sentenced to six years of detention in connection with a disturbing incident involving unlawful trespassing, blackmail, and threats against a woman. According to court records, the man engaged in a calculated scheme to intimidate and extort the victim, culminating in a criminal plot that took place in Lubbock after the man unlawfully entered Texas Tech University (TTU) property.
The arrest and sentencing come after an investigation revealed that the man, identified as 29-year-old Samuel McLeod of Lubbock, trespassed onto the TTU campus on February 14, 2025. McLeod, who had previously been banned from the property for unrelated reasons, violated the university’s restrictions by gaining unauthorized access to a secured area.
Details of the incident, revealed in court records, show that McLeod entered the university grounds with the intent to target a woman identified as Jessica Lee, 24, who had been involved with him in a past personal relationship. Lee, a student at TTU, was unaware of McLeod’s presence on campus until later events unraveled in a disturbing sequence.
According to the police report, McLeod’s actions were part of a larger scheme to blackmail Lee into complying with his demands. After the unlawful trespassing, McLeod reportedly drove several hours back to his home in Lubbock. Once there, he began sending threatening messages to Lee. The messages contained explicit threats to release compromising personal information about the victim unless she met his demands.
The scheme involved McLeod using sensitive and private information about Lee, which he had previously acquired through their interactions. McLeod’s threats included the release of explicit photos and intimate details unless Lee agreed to meet with him and comply with his demands. Authorities discovered that McLeod had been harassing Lee over several weeks prior to the incident, leading up to the escalation on February 14.
McLeod’s behavior escalated as he began making threats of physical harm, stating that he would come to Lee’s apartment in Lubbock if she did not comply with his wishes. The threats were taken seriously by Lee, who immediately contacted local law enforcement for help.
On February 16, 2025, the Lubbock Police Department (LPD) initiated an investigation after receiving Lee’s complaint. Detectives quickly traced the source of the harassing messages to McLeod, and officers located him at his residence in the 1200 block of 39th Street, Lubbock, Texas. At the time of his arrest, McLeod was in possession of multiple devices that contained further evidence of his blackmailing tactics.
During his initial court appearance, McLeod was charged with several serious offenses, including stalking, blackmail, and unlawful trespassing on Texas Tech University property. Following a lengthy investigation and trial, McLeod pleaded guilty to all charges, and he was sentenced to six years in a Texas correctional facility. The court also mandated that McLeod undergo counseling and treatment for mental health and behavioral issues while serving his sentence.
District Judge Erica C. Martin, who presided over the case, addressed the seriousness of McLeod’s actions during sentencing. “The conduct displayed in this case is reprehensible,” said Judge Martin. “This case serves as a reminder of the devastating effects that harassment and blackmail can have on victims. The court is committed to ensuring that individuals who use fear and coercion as a tool to manipulate others face severe consequences for their actions.”
The case has also raised concerns about the issue of stalking and online harassment, especially within college communities. Texas Tech University officials have stated that they are taking the matter very seriously and are working with law enforcement to enhance security measures on campus to prevent future incidents like this one.
In a statement, Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec emphasized the institution’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its students and staff. “We are deeply concerned by the events that transpired, and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that our campus remains a safe and secure environment for everyone. We are also offering support services for the victim in this case, as well as for others who may be impacted by similar experiences.”
The victim, Jessica Lee, has since spoken publicly about the trauma she experienced during the course of the harassment. In an emotional statement following McLeod’s sentencing, she expressed relief that the legal process had concluded but emphasized the lasting impact that the ordeal had on her life. “No one should ever have to experience this kind of fear or intimidation,” Lee said. “It is incredibly empowering to see justice served, and I hope that sharing my story can help others who may be in similar situations.”
Authorities are urging anyone who experiences similar threats or harassment to contact local law enforcement immediately. LPD has emphasized that all reports of blackmail and harassment will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.
McLeod will serve his six-year sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, with the possibility of parole after serving a portion of his sentence. His conviction serves as a reminder of the severe legal and personal consequences of engaging in such harmful and illegal behavior.
This case also brings attention to the broader issue of online harassment and its impact on victims, urging lawmakers and institutions to continue pushing for stronger protections against digital threats and blackmail.