Singapore tutor sentenced for filming and committing lewd acts behind teenage students in his home.
A Singaporean private tutor has been sentenced to four years and nine months in jail after being convicted of multiple sexual offences, including molestation and the production of obscene films, involving his female students. The case has shocked the community and raised concerns about child safety and the abuse of trust in educational settings.
Tutor Exploits Position of Trust
Michael Martin Lee Teck Heng, 58, provided mathematics and science tuition to primary and secondary school girls at his home. Between May and September 2019, Lee filmed himself committing sexual acts behind his students, disguising physical contact by placing his hand on their backs or shoulders. The victims, aged 13 to 16, were unaware of these acts during their one-on-one sessions.
Discovery and Arrest
Lee’s offences came to light on September 30, 2019, when a woman reported seeing him exposing himself at a bus stop. Police investigations led to the seizure of Lee’s phone and computer, which contained at least 951 obscene videos. Of these, 406 depicted Lee committing lewd acts behind his students at home, while 545 showed him performing similar acts in public places.
Victims and Impact
Five female students were identified as victims. One 15-year-old girl sensed something was wrong but hesitated to confront Lee, fearing escalation and influenced by his outward religious demeanor. The eldest victim, aged 16, appeared in 228 videos, while the youngest, just 13, was also filmed without her knowledge. The prosecution noted Lee’s deliberate abuse of authority and the vulnerability of his students.
Mental Health and Legal Arguments
Lee’s lawyer argued for leniency, citing a long history of mental health issues, including exhibitionistic disorder, supported by reports from the Institute of Mental Health. However, Principal District Judge Toh Han Li found that Lee’s disorder did not impair his self-control or awareness of wrongdoing, and gave no mitigating weight to his condition. The prosecution emphasized the need for deterrence and public protection, calling Lee a threat to the community.
Sentencing and Community Response
On June 17, 2025, Lee was sentenced to four years and nine months in jail after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated molestation and making obscene films. Ten additional charges were considered during sentencing. The case has highlighted the importance of safeguarding minors and ensuring strict vetting of educators in both Singapore and Indonesia, where private tuition is also prevalent.
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance in educational environments and the severe consequences of abusing positions of trust. It serves as a reminder for parents, educators, and authorities in both Singapore and Indonesia to prioritize child safety, enforce strict background checks, and foster open communication to prevent such abuses in the future.
Sources: CNA (2025) , The Straits Times (2025)
Keywords: Private Tutor, Lewd Acts, Female Students, Singapore Crime, Sentencing, Exhibitionistic Disorder
