Tallahassee police officers rescued a child hidden under a bathroom sink at a North Monroe Street motel on Monday, arresting a 43‑year‑old Florida man on multiple human‑trafficking charges.

The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) said the suspect, Terrence Lee of Fort Lauderdale, was taken into custody after a multi‑agency effort that began when an out‑of‑state law enforcement agency requested assistance locating a missing minor.

Tallahassee Police Locate Suspect After License Plate Tip

TPD received a request around 1 p.m. on October 20 from an unnamed out‑of‑state agency that had used an automated license‑plate reader to trace Lee’s vehicle. The information led officers to the 2800 block of North Monroe Street, where they found Lee’s car parked at a low‑cost motel.

Child Found Hidden Under Motel Sink

During a warrant‑authorized search of the motel room, detectives discovered the child concealed beneath a bathroom sink. The press release notes the child was unharmed but had been hidden for an unknown period. Authorities removed the minor to a safe location and are working with child‑welfare services.

Cross‑State Trafficking Allegations

Investigators say Lee traveled from South Florida to another state, where he allegedly picked up the minor before moving the child across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and back into Florida. The press release claims Lee posted online advertisements seeking to sexually exploit the child for financial gain.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Lee faces multiple charges, including human trafficking and child exploitation. The exact count of charges was not listed in the release. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact TPD at 850‑891‑4200 or remain anonymous.

"We are committed to protecting vulnerable children and bringing traffickers to justice," a TPD spokesperson said.

Key Facts

• Suspect: Terrence Lee, 43, Fort Lauderdale
• Location: 2800 block North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Leon County
• Crime: Human trafficking and child exploitation across multiple states
• Victim: Unnamed minor found under a motel sink
• Date of Arrest: October 20, 2026
• Current Status: Arrested; investigation ongoing, authorities seeking leads

What Comes Next for the Case

The investigation remains active as detectives continue to map Lee’s travel route and identify any co‑conspirators. Prosecutors will determine whether to file additional charges based on the online advertisements and any financial transactions uncovered. Child‑welfare officials will assess the minor’s needs and provide ongoing support. The case highlights the importance of inter‑agency cooperation in combating human‑trafficking networks that span state lines.