Recently, a high-profile case in the UK has garnered widespread attention. A 27-year-old man, Hugh Nelson, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for using artificial intelligence to transform ordinary photos of children into sexually abusive images.
Image source: Picture generated by AI, authorized by Midjourney
Nelson, from Bolton, used an application called Daz3D to create 3D "characters" based on innocent children's photos.
Shockingly, Nelson did not act alone; he also received commissioned images from others. Some even provided photos of themselves with children, asking him to create these images. According to The Guardian, Nelson earned about £5,000 (approximately $6,494) in 18 months by selling these commissioned child abuse images. He conducted transactions through online forums, and his arrest came when he told an undercover police officer that he charged £80 (about $103) to create new characters for clients.
Ultimately, Nelson was found guilty on multiple charges, including inciting the rape of children under 13, attempting to entice a boy under 16 for sexual acts, distributing and manufacturing indecent images, and possessing prohibited images. His actions have sparked societal reflection on using technology for crime. The harsh punishment is not only a penalty for him personally but also a warning to all potential offenders.
The judgment of this case has sparked public concern about internet security and child protection, reminding people to remain vigilant and protect children's safety in the online world.
Key Points:
🔍 Hugh Nelson used AI technology to create child abuse images and was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
💰 He earned about £5,000 by selling these images, with clients commissioning him to create them.
🚨 Nelson was found guilty on multiple charges, including inciting rape and distributing indecent images.