Milwaukee Man Faces Charges for AI Generated Nude Photo

AI at the Center of Milwaukee Investigation

Artificial intelligence is making headlines for its incredible capabilities, but a recent case in Milwaukee highlights its potential for misuse. Prosecutors have brought charges against a man for allegedly using AI to create and distribute a fake nude photograph of his ex-girlfriend.

The Allegations Explained

The accused, Kevin Scholz of Franklin, is at the center of the police investigation. According to the criminal complaint, Scholz and the victim briefly dated in 2022. In May of this year, the woman received an altered photo of herself.

Detective Del-Moral explained the nature of the image. "(She) recognized the photo of a selfie she took at a Bucks game in a bathroom, actually," she stated. "And that photo was modified so she would be fully nude." The victim knew the photo was fake because she had taken the original herself while fully clothed. As further proof, a cleaning person was visible in the background of the original selfie.

The Accused and the Legal Battle

Investigators traced the phone number that sent the image, stating in the complaint that it "links to the defendant."

Scholz has a background in public service, including a brief period as a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy two decades ago. More recently, he served on Governor Evers' Autism Council. Following the charges, the Governor's Office confirmed he was "promptly removed from the council."

During a preliminary hearing, Scholz's attorney, Christopher Cherella, challenged the prosecution's evidence. He questioned Detective Del-Moral about the specifics of the case.

"You have no idea, as you sit here today where that picture was altered, correct?" Cherella asked, to which the detective replied, "Correct."

The defense also highlighted that the image was sent directly to the victim and not posted publicly on social media.

Charges and Next Steps

Kevin Scholz is currently out on a signature bond as the legal process continues. He faces one felony charge for capturing an intimate representation without consent and a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct.

He is scheduled to be arraigned next month. Attempts to reach Scholz for comment were unsuccessful.