A former DeKalb County, Alabama high school volleyball coach remains behind bars after being denied bond in a sweeping federal investigation involving illegal surveillance and child exploitation.
Michael Lance Brown, 36, of Cloudland, Georgia, was employed as a volleyball coach at Valley Head High School in DeKalb County when authorities say he secretly recorded victims without their knowledge. The alleged crimes, which took place in a private residence in nearby Chattooga County, Georgia, have resulted in 41 felony charges against Brown.
During a recent bond hearing, Superior Court Judge Melissa Hise described Brown’s actions as “calculated and devious.” Investigators say Brown used hidden cameras to record individuals—whom he knew would be undressing—without their consent. The footage was allegedly distributed via the Kik messaging app.
The DeKalb County Board of Education confirmed Brown’s suspension, stating that no students from their system were involved in the case and emphasizing that student safety remains a top priority.
The illegal recordings reportedly occurred between May 11 and June 28, 2025, at a residence where Brown had access. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and may result in additional charges.
Brown’s current charges include:
Sexual Exploitation of Children – Felony (6 counts)
Computer or Electronic Pornography and Child Exploitation – Felony (6 counts)
Unlawful Eavesdropping or Surveillance – Felony (11 counts)
Possession of Eavesdropping Device – Felony (2 counts)
Surreptitious Recording of Intimate Parts – Felony (11 counts)
Transmission of Photography or Video Depicting Nudity or Sexually Explicit Conduct of an Adult – Felony (5 counts)
Authorities have not released the identities of the victims, but officials say the recordings targeted adults. Brown previously worked in Chattooga County as a technology specialist prior to his employment in DeKalb County.
Law enforcement agencies continue to review digital evidence and have not ruled out further developments in the case.
