Reports from UK law enforcement agencies or child protection organizations

UK's Hugh Nelson Gets 24-Year Sentence in Landmark AI Child Abuse Image Case

Oct 28, 2024, 11:28 AM

In a landmark case in the UK, Hugh Nelson, a 27-year-old man from Bolton, has been sentenced to 24 years, including 18 years in prison, for creating AI-generated child sexual abuse images based on real photographs of children. Nelson used artificial intelligence tools, including Daz 3D, and computer programs to transform innocent images of real children into explicit material. He shared and sold these images online, earning approximately £5,000. This case marks the first time UK law enforcement has been able to link AI-generated abuse images to real children. The judge described Nelson's actions as "dangerous and depraved," highlighting the deeply horrifying nature of his crimes.