AI to produce pictures of child sex abuse

U.S. Army Soldier Charged with

Creating AI-Generated Child Sex Abuse Content

AI Misuse in Criminal Acts: A Rising Concern

In a disturbing case that exposes the dark side of emerging technology, a U.S. Army soldier has been arrested for creating and distributing AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This case underscores the growing urgency among law enforcement to address the misuse of artificial intelligence in serious criminal offenses.

Who is Seth Herrera?

Seth Herrera, a 34-year-old Army specialist stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, is now facing federal charges. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Herrera used artificial intelligence to manipulate real images of minors he knew. The AI technology was reportedly used to digitally strip the children or insert them into pornographic scenes.

Child Sex Abuse: AI Tools Used to Create Harm

Authorities discovered that Herrera created lifelike child sexual abuse images using AI software. He downloaded photos of minors from various sources and altered them using deepfake-like technology. The manipulated content depicted disturbing acts, including forced oral sex and penetration.

These images were not just kept for personal use. Prosecutors claim Herrera shared them using platforms such as Telegram, Enigma, Potato Chat, and Nandbox. He even established a public group on Telegram to distribute such content.

A Search Uncovers Thousands of Files

During a court-authorized search of Herrera’s devices, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) found “tens of thousands” of photos and videos. The material dates back to March 2021 and includes graphic depictions of infants and toddlers being violently assaulted.

Additionally, Herrera filmed children he knew in vulnerable moments, such as while they were bathing, and used AI tools to morph the footage into sexually explicit content. In some instances, he zoomed in using software enhancements to intensify the imagery based on his preferences.

Child Sex Abuse: Escalation of AI in Child Exploitation Cases

This case is not isolated. Recent months have seen multiple incidents involving AI-generated CSAM. In May, a Wisconsin man was charged in what is believed to be the first U.S. federal case of child sexual abuse imagery made entirely using AI. Other cases in North Carolina and Pennsylvania involved digitally removing clothes from children’s pictures or superimposing faces into explicit scenes.

These developments pose significant challenges to law enforcement and child safety organizations. AI tools make it easier, cheaper, and faster for predators to create realistic content that bypasses traditional detection systems.

Federal Crackdown on AI-Driven Crimes

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized the federal government’s stance in a statement, saying:

“The misuse of cutting-edge generative AI is accelerating the proliferation of dangerous content. Criminals should pause and reconsider if they’re thinking about using AI to continue their crimes.”

Legal experts are also urging the justice system to treat AI-generated CSAM with the same seriousness as traditional materials. Although the victims may not be physically harmed in AI-created images, the intent and psychological damage remain just as severe.

A Serious Breach of Trust

Robert Hammer, Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations’ Pacific Northwest Division, called Herrera’s actions a “profound violation of trust.” As a soldier, Herrera held a position of responsibility. Instead, he used his access and authority to exploit the very community he swore to protect.

Herrera now faces one count each of receiving, distributing, and possessing child sexual abuse material. If convicted, he could spend up to 20 years in federal prison.

Military Response and Public Reaction

The Army has not yet issued a public statement. Defense Department officials said the case is under review. Herrera’s public defender, Benjamin Muse, declined to comment on the charges.

The public reaction has been one of shock and outrage. Many are calling for stricter monitoring of both military personnel and AI usage. Parents and child safety advocates are urging the government to create legal frameworks that prevent the spread of AI-generated explicit content.

The Future of AI and Child Protection

As artificial intelligence becomes more accessible, its potential for harm also grows. This case serves as a wake-up call. Regulators, tech developers, and lawmakers must work together to set ethical boundaries and legal consequences for those who misuse AI.

Until clear laws are in place, law enforcement will continue to face difficulties distinguishing between AI-generated and real-world abuse, especially when the material features realistic representations of children who exist in real life.

Final Thoughts

The Seth Herrera case is not just about one individual’s actions. It’s a warning sign of how powerful AI tools can be exploited by criminals. The justice system, society, and technology platforms must adapt quickly to protect the most vulnerable: our children.