Wisconsin software engineer arrested for creating AI-generated child sexual abuse images
Summary
Steven Anderegg, a 42-year-old software engineer from Wisconsin, was arrested for allegedly creating and distributing AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) using the Stable Diffusion AI tool. Authorities allege he sent thousands of illicit images of minors to a 15-year-old boy via Instagram direct messages and shared disturbing content on social media platforms. Law enforcement became aware of Anderegg in October after the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children flagged his activity. An investigation revealed over 13,000 images on his computer, many depicting minors in explicit contexts. If convicted, Anderegg faces up to 70 years in prison, with prosecutors suggesting a potential life sentence.
Incident Details
Harms involving the exploitation, abuse, or endangerment of minors, including CSAM and grooming.