Charlotte Man Accused of Amassing Thousands of AI-Generated Child Porn Files, Records Show

A Charlotte man pleaded guilty In federal court on Wednesday, officials disclosed charges related to the possession of numerous images depicting child sexual abuse, which included materials created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Daniel Broadway, aged 53, could face up to 20 years in prison following his admission of guilt for possessing and accessing with the intention to view child pornography featuring prepubescent minors, as well as having obscene visuals depicting the sexual abuse of children.

On December 12, 2023, investigators carried out a search warrant at Broadway’s residence and confiscated nine electronic devices. The subsequent forensic examination showed that Broadway had accumulated 8,661 images and two videos of child exploitation materials as well as 20,292 images and videos portraying minors engaged in explicit acts generated through artificial intelligence.

The U.S. Attorney's Office stated, "A significant portion of both non-AI and AI-created CSAM featured underage minors who were naked or semi-clothed, explicitly showing their private parts or participating in sexual acts with grown-ups."

Broadway was arrested after entering a guilty plea. No sentencing date has been established yet.

WCNC implemented a policy in March 2021 concerning the airing or sharing of mugshots.

WCNC will broadcast or publish a mugshot only if the individual has officially been accused of a crime, along with some additional scenarios. These exceptions encompass situations where the person might pose a risk to themselves or others, or when they have an active warrant out for their arrest; instances involving individuals who share a widespread name to avoid confusion; circumstances wherein such images could prompt further victim testimony. Additionally, the editorial team at WCNC reserves the right to utilize a mugshot depending on how serious the alleged crimes were and the extent of public curiosity in both the incident itself and subsequent legal processes.

WCNC Charlotte has opted to utilize this particular mugshot due to the gravity of the offense.