Suffolk County authorities have arrested Nicholas Zavesky, a 43-year-old Long Island resident, for allegedly using artificial intelligence to create child pornography.
According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Zavesky obtained images of two minors from social media platforms. He then uploaded these photos into an AI program, which generated over 50 images that depicted the minors undressed and engaged in sexual acts. Prosecutors stated that Zavesky was found with this collection of AI-generated images after a raid on his East Patchogue home on Thursday.
The investigation was initiated following a tip received by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The victims, whose ages are reported to be between 12 and 16, had their social media photos used without their consent. It remains unclear if Zavesky had any prior knowledge of the girls.
Zavesky pleaded not guilty to the charges during his initial court appearance. He was released on bail and is subject to GPS and internet monitoring. A temporary order of protection has also been issued, prohibiting him from contacting the alleged victims.
Zavesky is scheduled to return to court on September 11. He is described in some reports as an "MVP" softball pitcher within the United States Specialty Sports Association.