Ex-Pikesville Athletic Director Arrested for AI-Generated Deepfake Targeting Principal
April 27, 2024
Former Pikesville High School athletic director Dazhon 'DJ' Darien is arrested for creating a deepfake of Principal Eric Eiswert making racist comments.
The deepfake audio, which circulated on social media, led to Principal Eiswert's temporary removal and hate messages towards the school.
Darien faces multiple charges, such as theft, stalking, and retaliation against a witness, and was apprehended attempting to flee to Houston.
The suspect utilized the school's network to access OpenAI tools, tying the incident to paid OpenAI accounts.
The school is contemplating future plans and investigating other staff for their roles in spreading the fabricated audio.
The incident prompts legal considerations by authorities, including the Baltimore County State's Attorney, to address AI misuse.
OpenAI has restricted access to its voice cloning technology due to the incident.
Baltimore county public schools are considering termination as a potential consequence for those involved.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 27, 2024
Baltimore teacher accused of using AI to create fake, racist recording of principal
Yahoo News • Apr 26, 2024
Teacher arrested, accused of using AI to falsely paint boss as racist and antisemitic
Yahoo News • Apr 27, 2024
Baltimore teacher accused of using AI to create fake, racist recording of principal
Yahoo News • Apr 26, 2024
Baltimore high school teacher arrested over deepfake racist audio of principal