BG Man Sentenced in AI Porn Case

Bowling Green resident receives 5-year prison term for using AI to create child sexual abuse images

Mar. 15, 2026 at 11:00am

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A 37-year-old Bowling Green man has been sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for using artificial intelligence to produce hundreds of images depicting child sexual exploitation. Ray Gordon pleaded guilty to charges of producing and possessing obscene visual representations of child abuse after law enforcement discovered the AI-generated content on his electronic devices during a separate investigation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of predators using emerging technologies like AI to create highly realistic child sexual abuse material, which can be extremely difficult for law enforcement to detect. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and technology companies to combat the proliferation of this abusive content.

The details

According to court documents, Gordon used an AI image generator to create detailed depictions of child sexual abuse between July 2022 and December 2023. Law enforcement initially believed some of the images were of real children until further investigation revealed they were AI-generated. A search of Gordon's devices uncovered over 1,300 unique visual representations of child sexual abuse.

  • In July 2022, Gordon began using an AI image generator to create child sexual abuse material.
  • In December 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gordon's residence and discovered the AI-generated content.
  • In October 2024, Gordon was charged at the federal level and soon after reached a plea agreement.

The players

Ray Gordon

A 37-year-old Bowling Green resident who pleaded guilty to producing and possessing obscene visual representations of child abuse using AI technology.

U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner

The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky who stated that his office will continue to work with law enforcement to stop child predators who adapt new technologies for their 'twisted and evil fetishes'.

Warren County Commonwealth's Attorney Kori Beck Bumgarner

The local prosecutor who expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the case and noted that the supervised release component would provide continued oversight after Gordon's incarceration.

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What they’re saying

“Unfortunately, child predators are using AI to produce child sexual abuse material. It is tragic how deviants continually adapt new technology to further their twisted and evil fetishes. Our office will continue to work with law enforcement to ensure that these deviants are stopped and sent to federal prison.”

— U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner

“In many instances the AI generated child pornography the defendant created was extremely realistic, so much so that it was initially believed by law enforcement to depict real children in actual situations of sexual abuse.”

— Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Zimdahl

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Gordon to be released on supervised probation after he completes his 5-year prison sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of predators exploiting emerging technologies like AI to create highly realistic child sexual abuse material. It underscores the critical need for continued collaboration between law enforcement, technology companies, and the public to combat the proliferation of this abusive content and protect vulnerable children.