Gun Store Owner Accused of Creating Deepfake Influencer Nudes
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has brought incredible tools to the world, but it has also opened a new frontier for malicious activity. A recent case in northwest Houston highlights this dark side, as a local business owner faces serious charges for allegedly using AI to harass and impersonate a popular social media influencer.
Houston Business Owner Arrested
Jorge Abrego, the 37-year-old co-owner of the HTX Tactical gun store, was arrested at his place of business on Tuesday. The arrest was the culmination of a months-long investigation conducted by the Harris County Sheriff's Office into allegations of cyberstalking and online impersonation involving AI-generated explicit content.
The Investigation Unfolds
The case began in February when a TikTok influencer, who has a following of over 90,000, reported to authorities that fake accounts were impersonating her on the platform. The situation escalated dramatically in June when she discovered that these fraudulent accounts were being used to distribute deepfake nude photos and videos of her. One fabricated image reportedly depicted the victim with heart emojis covering her private areas, while another showed her in lingerie with a caption suggesting she offered illicit services for money.
Disturbing Discoveries and Alleged Confession
Investigators executed a search warrant and examined Abrego's phones, where they reportedly found direct evidence linking him to the crime. Authorities claim he was logged into the fake TikTok accounts used to distribute the content. Furthermore, they allegedly discovered more than 50 fake nude photos and videos on his devices. Some of these files had been manipulated with AI to falsely show the victim engaged in explicit sexual acts.
According to deputies, Abrego admitted to creating both the deepfake content and the fraudulent accounts during an interview on August 15. The victim also told investigators that Abrego had previously expressed romantic interest in her, stating he was in love with her and wanted a relationship.
The Legal Battle Ahead
While creating deepfake pornography has been illegal in Texas since 2023, it is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail. Abrego faces a much more serious charge of felony online impersonation for creating the fake TikTok profiles. Records indicate he is being held on a $100 bond for the deepfake charge, with a bond for the felony impersonation charge yet to be determined. In a public statement, HTX Tactical acknowledged Abrego's arrest but stressed that he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
For continuing coverage on this developing story, you can follow reporter Luke Jones on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
