Web Desk
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas — A Montgomery County man has been arrested again for allegedly using artificial intelligence to create explicit images of a teenage girl.
On March 11, authorities arrested 31-year-old Roman Shoffner on felony warrants for possession of child pornography.
According to a press release from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Shoffner was listed as a “top 10 fugitive” at the time of his arrest.
The charges stem from a 2024 incident when investigators found AI-generated images on Shoffner’s phone. The photos depicted a 17-year-old girl, digitally altered to appear unclothed.
Court documents reveal that the images were first discovered by Shoffner’s wife, who searched his phone after suspecting him of infidelity. She found photos taken at a party the couple attended earlier that day. One image showed a group of people, including her teenage relative.
Shoffner had taken a screenshot of the photo and used an AI application to isolate the girl and remove her clothing digitally.
Outraged by the discovery, Shoffner’s wife immediately informed the victim’s mother, who pressed charges without hesitation.
During the initial investigation, Shoffner admitted to using the AI tool, claiming he was curious about “how far AI had come.” He also stated that he didn’t realize the girl was underage.
It remains unclear whether Shoffner was released on bail after his first arrest or what led to the latest charges.
In response to this case, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick addressed the growing concern over AI-generated content.
Earlier today, he announced the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 20 — a new state law that makes it a felony to possess AI-generated sexual material depicting children.
“As Texas enters the digital age, our state must be very careful about our approach to artificial intelligence. With the proliferation of AI-generated pornography, steps must be taken to protect Texans, and specifically children, from harmful computer-generated content and the crimes that arise from it,” Lt. Gov. Patrick said.
The investigation into Shoffner’s activities is ongoing.
