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NIU student from Batavia accused of using AI to create thousands of child sex abuse images to sell online
- Michael B. Erickson, a 20-year-old Northern Illinois University student, was arrested on June 2 near Bayfield Drive in DeKalb for possession and creation of child pornography.
- The arrest came after an investigation began in April when authorities received information from a child protection organization, which led to the execution of a search warrant on Erickson's dorm room and electronic devices in May.
- Police seized multiple devices containing over 20,000 images, including AI-generated deep fake child sexual abuse material, and Erickson allegedly admitted to creating and selling these images online.
- Erickson has been charged with over 20 offenses related to child pornography, and a judge approved his pretrial release under conditions such as electronic monitoring and restrictions on internet use.
- Erickson must appear in court on July 17, and authorities continue seeking additional victims while highlighting emerging issues with AI-based child exploitation.
15 Articles
15 Articles
NIU student charged with 21 felonies for child sex abuse material allegedly found on devices in dorm room
DEKALB COUNTY (WGN) — A Northern Illinois University student is facing felony charges after authorities said they allegedly uncovered thousands of images of suspected child sex abuse material on electronic devices taken from his dorm room last month. According to deputies in DeKalb County, 19-year-old Micahel Erickson, a current NIU student, has been charged with 21 felonies, including production of child pornography, dissemination of child porn…
NIU student facing child pornography charges
A student at Northern Illinois University is facing child pornography charges, authorities said Tuesday. Michael B. Erickson, 20, is charged with multiple counts of production of child pornography, disseminating child pornography and possession of child pornography, the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office said. In April, the Batavia Police Department opened an investigation on Erickson after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Ex…
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