CARRIZO SPRINGS, TEXAS — Adan Covarrubias was arrested earlier this month in Carrizo Springs, Texas, by Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (DPS CID) special agents with assistance from the FBI and the Dimmitt County Sheriff's Office. He has been charged with possession of computer-generated child pornography under Texas Senate Bill 20.

In April of this year, FBI Del Rio obtained consent to seize electronic devices from Covarrubias’ home. Agents found more than 900 AI-generated pornographic images and videos allegedly created by Covarrubias, depicting “prepubescent and pubescent” children. Law enforcement determined that Covarrubias had taken photographs from open-source pages affiliated with South Texas schools and used AI tools to “nudify” the children. About 30 child victims have been identified in the investigation. Multiple non-AI-generated pornographic images of children were also found in his possession.

Covarrubias is 31 years old. DPS CID Chief Floyd Goodwin said, “With the accessibility and use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology becoming more prevalent in our modern world, we must remember that some will use these tools for evil.” Goodwin added, “In Texas, we are fortunate to have new laws that help us hold those who harm our children accountable. As AI grows, cases like this one may too, so parents, please talk to your children about being safe online and out in public and encourage them to speak up if they see or hear something that doesn’t seem right.”