A sicko who used computer software and AI tech to morph photos of real children into sexual abuse images has been jailed. Hugh Nelson, 27, was given an 18-year sentence with an extra six years on extended licence at Bolton Crown Court after admitting to a whopping 16 charges related to child sex abuse crimes.
The CPS initially authorised five charges against the peado after he was arrested by Greater Manchester Police in June 2023, and his digital devices were seized for examination. Cops discovered that Nelson, from Egerton, Bolton, was a regular in encrypted internet chatrooms where he’d trade and flog computer-generated images and discuss child sex abuse with others.
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(Image: CPS / SWNS)
Nelson would also take requests from sick individuals wanting him to create explicit images showing children being sexually and physically harmed, which he’d then sell for cash or share for free. Some of these computer-generated images shockingly used photos of real children.
Over an 18-month period, Nelson confesses he made around £5,000 from selling these horrifying images. After further examination of his devices, the CPS charged Nelson with 11 more offences on 27 February 2024.
Investigations revealed that Nelson had engaged in online chatroom conversations on three different occasions with three different individuals, where he encouraged the sexual assault of children under 13.
Jeanette Smith, Specialist Prosecutor for the CPS, said: “It is extremely disturbing that Hugh Nelson was able to take normal photographs of children and, using AI tools and a computer programme, transform them and create images of the most depraved nature to sell and share online.
(Image: Police Handout)
“Through his online discussions with other like-minded individuals, Nelson also exchanged messages with the intention of encouraging adults to inflict horrifying sexual abuse on young children, all for his own sexual gratification.
“Anyone thinking of using this technology in the worst possible way and creating child sexual abuse material should be aware that the law applies equally to real indecent photographs and AI or computer-generated images of children.
“The misuse of emerging technology to create this material is a serious crime which can have a real impact on victims. Real children are being victimised through the creation of this content.
“Technology is rapidly evolving and, unfortunately, so too is its risk to children. I hope this conviction sends a clear message to those who exploit this technology and inflict harm on children: you will be robustly pursued by law enforcement, prosecuted by the CPS and brought to justice.”
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