Nacogdoches Man Indicted on AI Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material
BAYTOWN, TX — A 34-year-old Nacogdoches man is facing both federal and state prosecution after an investigation revealed he allegedly used artificial intelligence to exploit a child he knew. Kane Kellum was indicted on four federal counts related to child sexual abuse material, alongside a severe state charge of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.
The case marks a significant intersection of emerging technology and criminal law, highlighting the role of AI in modern exploitation cases.
AI-Generated Material Triggers Investigation
The investigation began in the early morning hours of November 28, 2025, when Baytown Police officers responded to a residence regarding suspicious material found on a cellphone.
According to detectives, the device contained AI-generated images of known minors. Investigators allege that Kellum utilized AI applications to manipulate photographs of a child he personally knew into exploitative material. Due to the high-tech nature of the crime, the Baytown Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit referred the case to the FBI for a deeper forensic probe.
Federal and State Charges
The collaborative effort between local and federal authorities led to a dual-track prosecution:
- Federal Indictment: A grand jury returned indictments on four counts related to the production and possession of child sexual abuse material.
- State Charge: Further investigation by Baytown detectives uncovered additional criminal conduct, resulting in a state charge of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.
The Role of Digital Forensics
Forensic specialists were instrumental in securing these charges by tracing the origin and storage of the digital material. Their analysis proved how the images were manipulated using AI tools.
“As technology evolves, so do the tactics of those who seek to exploit it,” said Baytown Police Chief John Stringer. “We will continue to adapt and utilize every available resource, including advanced digital forensics, to ensure offenders are held accountable.”
Legal Context: What is “Super Aggravated” Assault?
In Texas, “Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child” is a colloquial term for an enhanced first-degree felony. It is among the most serious charges in the state and typically applies when:
- The victim is under the age of 6, OR
- Certain aggravating factors (such as serious bodily injury or specific threats) are present in cases involving a victim under 14.
Penalty: A conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 25 years to life in prison with no possibility of parole.
