Ex-teacher accused of using AI to create nude student photos

Authorities say the former Coldwater middle school instructor altered images of female students.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:40pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen, reflecting a distorted, pixelated image. The lighting is harsh and direct, creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the violation of student privacy.The alleged misuse of AI technology to exploit students has sparked outrage and calls for stronger safeguards in schools.Coldwater Today

A former Coldwater middle school teacher is facing criminal charges for allegedly using an artificial intelligence application to create nude photographs of female students by altering existing images of them. The Branch County Prosecuting Attorney has filed charges against the teacher, whose identity has not been publicly released.

Why it matters

This case highlights growing concerns about the misuse of AI technology to exploit and victimize minors, as well as the need for stronger safeguards and oversight around the use of such tools in educational settings.

The details

According to prosecutors, the former teacher used an unspecified AI application to digitally manipulate existing photos of female students, transforming them into explicit nude images without the students' knowledge or consent. The teacher has been charged with multiple felony counts related to the alleged crimes.

  • The incidents are alleged to have occurred during the teacher's time at Coldwater middle school.

The players

Zachary Stempien

The Branch County Prosecuting Attorney who has filed charges against the former teacher.

Coldwater middle school

The school where the former teacher was employed and allegedly committed the crimes.

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What they’re saying

“We must protect our students and ensure that technology is not misused to violate their privacy and dignity.”

— Zachary Stempien, Branch County Prosecuting Attorney

What’s next

The former teacher is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks to face the charges.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for robust policies, training, and oversight to prevent the exploitation of students through the misuse of emerging technologies like AI.