PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that additional alleged victims have been identified in the case against Joseph Mello, a 38‑year‑old former gymnastics and dance instructor accused of using generative artificial intelligence to produce child sexual abuse material.
Victims to speak at detention hearing
According to a court filing, three alleged victims intend to attend Mello’s detention hearing, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 12, at 1 p.m. in U.S. District Court in Providence, and will testify in person. Several other victims have asked that the government submit written statements on their behalf.
Charges and alleged conduct
Mello faces multiple federal charges, including attempted production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, possession of child sexual abuse material, and production of obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. He is also charged with video voyeurism, a separate case that remains pending.
Prosecutors allege that Mello filmed a child in a bathroom and changing area at a dance studio where he taught, then used AI programs such as Grok and SwapX to generate nude or sexualized images and videos of the child. Investigators say they recovered 953 videos and 2,881 images from the SwapX application on Mello’s phone.
How AI was misused
Raina Pfefferkorn, a researcher on generative‑AI harms at the Stanford Institute for Human‑Centered AI, explained that “nudify” or undress tools allow a single photograph of a minor to be transformed into a nude version with minimal technical skill. She warned that these tools are designed for illegitimate purposes and lack safeguards to protect minors.
In one affidavit detail, investigators allege Mello secretly photographed a 12‑year‑old girl changing in a bathroom at a dance facility and later told detectives he did it for “the thrill and sexual gratification.”
Law‑enforcement response
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda called the case “a disturbing reminder that rapidly evolving technology can be weaponized to exploit children.” He noted that while the technology is new, the harm it enables is not.
Federal officials continue to search for additional victims and witnesses. Anyone whose child had contact with Mello or who has information about his alleged conduct is urged to contact Homeland Security New England Victim Assistance at [email protected].
Background on the suspect
Mello previously worked as an instructor at gymnastics, dance, and cheerleading facilities throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. He remains in federal custody pending further proceedings.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
