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Online Scheduling for Video Visitation/Scheduling for Face to Face Visitation

Effective Monday, January 9, 2023 , in-person visits at the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF) and face-to-face visits at the Central Detention Facility (CDF) will resume for all residents and visitors according to scheduling services provided by DOC Operations Team. 

COVID-19 vaccinations are no longer required for DOC residents and visitors. 

The Video Visitation Center will be CLOSED on Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, 2022. 

The video visitation center will be open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on new year’s day, sunday, january 1, 2023. , beginning monday, july 19, 2021 video visitation will be resume at the following dcpl satellite locations: .

• Anacostia Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd SE, Washington, DC 20020 – Visits are conducted on Thursdays and Fridays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
• Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave SE, Washington, DC 20019 - Visits are conducted on Wednesday and Saturdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

UPDATE: Saturday, April 4, 2020 – Your health and safety is extremely important to us. Together, everyone needs to play their part in helping to flatten the curve. To mitigate the possible spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) through DC Department of Corrections (DC DOC) facilities, the Department will implement a medical stay-in-place, effective immediately , which will further limit movement of residents and help “flatten the curve”, as we anticipate the pandemic’s peak in the next several weeks. During the medical stay in place, DOC will cease all video visitations.

The VVC is located behind the Correctional Treatment Facility (1901 E Street, SE, Washington, DC 20009), on the ground level of The READY Center.

All visits will continue to be scheduled via the Internet or by calling 1 (888) 906-6394 or (202) 442-6155 (Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am-5 pm).

Social visits at the DC Jail are conducted at the Department’s Video Visitation Center, located at the DC General Hospital complex (adjacent to the jail), and in select community visitation locations. Visits may be scheduled via the Internet  or by calling 1 (888) 906-6394 or (202) 442-6155 (Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am-5 pm). Visits are conducted Wednesdays through Sundays starting at 11 am and ending at 10 pm. The last session begins at 9 pm. Visitation hours at the community locations differ. Please see below for visitation hours for each satellite location. DOC encourages all visitors to arrive at least fifteen minutes prior to the scheduled visit. Visits must start on time and are automatically cancelled if visitors arrive late.

Effective Wednesday, September 12, 2012, inmates are allowed two (2) 45-minute social visits per week--visits are free and by appointment only. However, One adult and up to two minor children (under the age of 18) may enter the video visitation room to visit, effective November 6, 2012. Additional minor children may be rotated in during the forty-five (45) minute visitation period as long as they are supervised by an adult while in the waiting area.

About Face to Face Visitation

The D.C. Department of Corrections offers visitation for the families and loved ones of those incarcerated in our facilities. Most social visits for inmates housed at the D.C. Jail are conducted through video visitation. However, as an incentive for positive behavior, face to face visitation is now available for eligible inmates. This program began on June 22, 2015.

Correctional Treatment Facility:

There will be no weekend or Sunday visitation on Sunday, December 25, 2022, or Sunday, January 1, 2023.

Christmas Day (Observed) Monday, December 26, 2022 - Female Population Only.         Holiday Schedule - 8AM,  9AM, 10AM, 11AM, and 12PM

New Year's Day (Observed) Monday, January 2, 2023 - Female Population Only .         Holiday Schedule - 8AM, 9AM, 10AM, 11AM, and 12PM

Note:  All Mondays are reserved for the female population at the CTF.

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Visit a Person in Custody

• Visit Schedule
• Visit Transportation
• Visiting with Children
• Visitors' Dress Code
• Visitor Satisfaction Survey

Beginning May 10, 2023:

• In-person visits are offered on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
• Wednesday and Thursday: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Visitors who arrive outside of the registration hours will not be eligible for a visit.
• In-Person visits follow the existing visitor schedule according to the last name of the individual in custody. Please view this schedule here .
• Visiting groups may consist of no more than two (2) adults and one (1) child who will sit on one of the adult’s lap; or one (1) adult and two (2) children, at least one of whom is small enough to sit on someone’s lap.
• Prospective visitors who are not feeling well are encouraged to say home and return for a visit on a different day.

Facility Locations

The Department operates several facilities across NYC. Please see the list of Facility Locations where names and address of all DOC facilities to inform your visit.

Things to Know

• Visitors will be subject to passive canine searches when arriving to the Rikers Island Visit Control Building or the Borough facilities, or any other facility including the Hospital Prison Wards.
• All visitors 18 years of age and older must present valid current identification that contains a photograph and signature. Acceptable forms of identification for all visitors are listed below.
• A 16-year-old or 17-year-old with valid identification (such as a birth certificate) may accompany a child under the age of 16 if that 16- or 17-year-old is the parent of the child and the inmate being visited is also the parent of the same child. In this case, the 16- or 17-year-old must produce a birth certificate for the child under the age of 16.

     PLEASE NOTE: All packages for persons in custody need to be mailed. Packages will not      be accepted during  in-person visits.      

Acceptable Forms of Identification

From any state or territory in the U.S.:

• Current driver’s license
• Valid Employment ID card with photo AND most recent employment paycheck/stub
• DMV Non-driver license identification card

Other Acceptable Forms of Identification

• Resident alien or permanent resident card issued by the U.S. Department of Justice
• Passport (from any country)
• NYS benefits identification card (Medicaid/food stamp photo ID)
• U.S. Armed Services identification
• Consulate-issued or diplomatic identification

If you have any questions while at a facility, please ask a Correction Officer or Supervisor.

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Inmate escapes from Wash. state prison after stealing staff member's truck, officials say

by KOMO Staff

MONROE, Wash. (KOMO) — Officials are searching for a Washington state prison inmate they say escaped Friday morning after stealing keys to a staff member's vehicle and driving off grounds.

Patrick Lester Clay, 59, appears to have escaped the Monroe Correctional Complex around 7:40 a.m. "by breaking into a staff office during routine maintenance cleaning and stealing the keys to the staff members car which Clay then drove off grounds," according to the Washington State Department of Corrections.

He was in the minimum security unit at the prison, the DOC said.

Clay was last seen in a white four-door GMC Sierra truck, with the plate number C39525X, according to the DOC. He was last seen wearing khaki pants, a khaki jacket and a khaki beanie with white tennis shoes and a yellow DOC vest. Inside the vehicle, there was a blue/gray zip-up sweatshirt and black cap Clay could be wearing, the DOC added.

Residents who live in the area said they received an alert and locked their doors and remained inside.

“It made me nervous. I double checked the locks on my doors and hoped that I will be able to sleep just as well as I usually do at night," said Kim Eichner, who lives in Monroe.

Eichner said she was on edge and told KOMO she didn’t understand how an inmate could easily get away and said it raised questions about the facility's security measures.

It should not be that easy to grab keys and take off," said Chris Wright, communication director for the DOC. "I think the primary focus right now is finding him and getting him back in custody and doing a thorough review of what happened or if anything went wrong or what can be done to prevent this from happening again."

The Monroe Police Department posted a photo of the stolen truck on X.

Clay — who was convicted in King County for counts of burglary, malicious mischief, harassment and theft — had a release date of Dec. 24, 2025, according to the DOC.

Officials say if you see the vehicle or Clay, call 911 or the Monroe Correctional Complex at 360-794-2720 and do not approach him.

3 inmates die in Bullock County Correctional Facility

UNION SPRINGS, Ala. (WSFA) - Three inmates have died in April at the Bullock County Correctional Facility in separate instances.

ADOC stated that on Sunday, April 14, Clifton Leon King was found unresponsive in his cell. The medical staff administered care but were unable to resuscitate him, and he was pronounced dead by the attending physician. King was serving a life sentence for a murder in Montgomery County.

The second death happened on Saturday, April 20. Inmate Dustin Ortega was discovered unresponsive in his cell. Emergency care was administered, and Ortega was transported to the health care unit. The staff was unable to resuscitate Ortega, and he was pronounced dead by the attending physician, ADOC stated.

Ortega was serving a 15-year sentence for offenses-public health/morals out of Madison County.

According to ADOC, a third death happened on Wednesday, April 24. Inmate Christopher Rian McGhee was found unresponsive in his bed. Staff administered emergency care and transported him to the health care unit, where he was pronounced dead. McGhee was serving a revoked split 20-year sentence for unlawful breaking and entering of a vehicle out of Jefferson County.

ADOC stated the cause of death in each of these cases is pending autopsy results and the LESD investigation.

ADOC has provided no further information regarding these deaths at this time.

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‘The Strike’ Review: Doc Chronicles a Battle to Halt Endless Solitary Confinement

JoeBill Munoz and Lucas Guilkey’s feature debut is an involving chronicle of inmates’ struggle against one California prison’s severe treatment policies. 

By Dennis Harvey

Dennis Harvey

Film Critic

• ‘The Strike’ Review: Doc Chronicles a Battle to Halt Endless Solitary Confinement 56 mins ago
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When California opened the Pelican Bay State Prison in 1989, it was considered a model of its “supermax” type, designed as a maximum security institution for “the worst of the worst.” At the time, the “War on Drugs” (then “three-strikes” laws) had greatly increased prison populations, resulting in overcrowding which escalated tensions between inmate factions. Pelican Bay was conceived to alleviate those problems by isolating the most troublesome wards of the state.

Popular on Variety

This approach then provided a blanket excuse to place those individuals in “the SHU” (Security Housing Unit) … and leave them there. A half-dozen or so Pelican Bay veterans interviewed here include ones who remained in solitary for 10, 20, even 30-plus years. They describe such complete isolation as “a very intense mental battle.” One shares, “I had resigned myself to death in a windowless concrete box.”

In July 2011, there was a widespread first hunger strike to demand better conditions. Some requests were shamefully basic, including the right to have a wall calendar, a warm winter cap, one family photo and one phone call per year. (The facility’s remote rural location, just below the Oregon border, makes in-person visits rare.) 

When that effort seemed to generate little real change, there was a second strike in 2013 — smaller in number, but more effective in gaining attention from outside reformists, media, and politicians. In the end, however, it was a lawsuit rather than legislators that forced change, leading some 4,000 inmates to be released from solitary. For some, that ultimately led to parole and a new start in society. 

Brief, impressionistic reenactments attempt to convey something of this extreme prison life. But limited access and the film’s brisk, even slick tenor perversely make the grueling nature of solitary confinement (which some have considered a form of torture) a reality “The Strike” doesn’t render especially vivid. A few prior documentaries on the subject, like Nina Rosenblum’s 1990 “Through the Wire,” or dramatic depictions like Steve McQueen’s “Hunger,” have managed that better. 

But Munoz and Guilkey’s emphasis is more on bucking the system, a process driven by the combined efforts of inmates, activists (including prisoners’ relatives), investigative journalists, and select politicians. We also hear from a number of current or former prison officials, and see videotape of an attempted negotiation session during one hunger strike. 

The U.S. prison industry continues to boom, and many citizens see incarceration as a deserved dead end for “bad people,” never mind abstraction notions of human rights and rehabilitation. “The Strike” reminds that even within criminal justice, some degree of mercy remains relevant. Particularly outside the realm of lifers and death row, the goal shouldn’t be to crush individuals’ spirit until they can’t possibly re-enter civilian life. This well-crafted documentary makes a strong case for human contact as essential to human existence, even (or especially) among the incarcerated. Closing on-screen text, however, notes that about 120,000 American convicts are still currently estimated as being held in solitary confinement. 

Reviewed online, April 26, 2024. In Hot Docs Festival. Running time: 86 MIN.

• Production: (Documentary) A JoeBill Munoz, Lucas Guilkey production. (World sales: ROCO Films, Sausalito, Calif.) Producers: Munoz, Guilkey. Executive producers: David Menschel, Robina Riccitiello, Sandie Viquez Pedlow.
• Crew: Directors: JoeBill Munoz, Lucas Guilkey. Camera: Victor Tadashi Suarez. Editor: Daniela I. Quiroz. Music: Chris Pattishall, Samora Pinderhughes
• With: Faruq Salvant, Paul Redd, Michael Saavedra, Ernesto Lira, Dadisi Benton, Jack Morris, Michael Montgomery, Bob Ayers, Shane Bauer, Dolores Canales, Brian Parry, John Campbell, Scott Kernan.

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35 facts about lyubertsy.

Written by Tate Lewin

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Lyubertsy is a fascinating city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history and vibrant culture, Lyubertsy has become a prominent destination for both tourists and locals alike. This article will take you on a journey through 35 interesting facts about Lyubertsy, providing you with a comprehensive overview of this enchanting city. From its historical landmarks and architectural wonders to its renowned festivals and local cuisine, Lyubertsy has something to offer for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the hidden gems and fascinating trivia that make Lyubertsy such a remarkable place to visit.

Key Takeaways:

• Lyubertsy, a city in Russia, is known for its rich history, cultural events, and vibrant community. From museums to parks, it offers something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
• With a population of over 190,000, Lyubertsy boasts a strong sense of community, low crime rate, and warm hospitality. It’s a city with a high standard of living and a rich cultural heritage.

Lyubertsy is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast of Russia.

Nestled in the southeastern part of Moscow , Lyubertsy is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes.

The city is named after the Russian nobleman Dmitry Lyubertsy.

Dmitry Lyubertsy was a prominent figure in the 19th century and played a significant role in the development of the region.

Lyubertsy is home to a population of over 190,000 people.

With a large and diverse community, the city offers a unique blend of traditions, languages, and cultures.

The city is famous for its industrial sector.

Lyubertsy is known for its manufacturing plants, including the production of machinery, electronics, and textiles.

Lyubertsy has a rich cultural heritage.

The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, showcasing the talent and creativity of its residents.

The Lyubertsy District is dotted with picturesque parks and green spaces.

Residents and visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities in the city’s numerous parks and gardens.

Lyubertsy is well-connected to Moscow through an extensive transportation network.

Commuting to and from the city is convenient, thanks to the availability of buses, trains, and metro lines.

The city experiences a continental climate.

Winters in Lyubertsy are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and moderately humid.

Lyubertsy has a rich sporting culture.

The city is home to various sports complexes, arenas, and stadiums, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle among its residents.

The famous Russian singer, Alla Pugacheva, was born in Lyubertsy.

Alla Pugacheva, often referred to as the “Queen of Russian Pop,” is a beloved figure in the music industry.

The Lyubertsy Railway Station is an important transportation hub.

It connects the city to other parts of Russia, making travel accessible and convenient for residents and visitors.

Lyubertsy is known for its vibrant cultural events and festivals.

Throughout the year, the city hosts various celebrations, showcasing its rich traditions, music, and dance.

The city has a thriving educational system.

Lyubertsy is home to several schools, colleges, and universities, providing quality education to its residents.

Lyubertsy offers a range of recreational activities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, ice skating, skiing, and other outdoor activities in the city’s sports complexes and recreational centers.

The Lyubertsy History Museum preserves the city’s historical artifacts.

The museum showcases the rich history and heritage of Lyubertsy, allowing visitors to delve into its past.

The city has a variety of shopping centers and markets.

From local boutiques to large malls, Lyubertsy offers plenty of options for shopping enthusiasts.

Lyubertsy has a strong sense of community.

Residents actively participate in local events, volunteer programs, and social initiatives, fostering a close-knit and supportive environment.

The city is known for its delicious Russian cuisine.

Visitors can savor traditional dishes such as borscht, pelmeni, and blini in Lyubertsy’s charming restaurants and cafes.

Lyubertsy is surrounded by picturesque countryside.

Nature lovers can explore the nearby forests, lakes, and rivers, offering tranquility and an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The city has several architectural landmarks.

From historical buildings to modern structures, Lyubertsy boasts a diverse range of architectural styles.

Lyubertsy is a hub for arts and culture.

The city embraces various art forms, including music, theater, painting, and sculpture.

Lyubertsy has a low crime rate.

The city’s focus on security and community well-being contributes to a safe and secure living environment.

Lyubertsy celebrates its rich heritage through folk festivals.

Traditional music, dance, and costumes take center stage during these vibrant celebrations.

The city has a well-developed healthcare system.

Residents have access to modern medical facilities and clinics, ensuring their well-being.

Lyubertsy is a city of historical significance.

It played a crucial role in Russia’s past and preserves its heritage through museums and historical sites.

Lyubertsy is home to many talented artists and musicians.

The city’s vibrant creative scene showcases local talent and promotes artistic expression.

The city has a strong sense of environmental consciousness.

Efforts are made to promote sustainability, green initiatives, and conservation of natural resources.

Lyubertsy hosts various cultural exhibitions and events.

These events provide a platform for artists, craftsmen, and cultural enthusiasts to showcase their work.

The city is known for its warm hospitality.

Visitors can experience the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals during their stay in Lyubertsy.

Lyubertsy is a center for academic research and innovation.

The city promotes scientific development and fosters collaboration between educational institutions and industries.

The Lyubertsy City Park is a popular recreational spot.

With its lush greenery, walking trails, and recreational facilities, the park offers a refreshing escape for residents.

Lyubertsy celebrates its rich history through historical reenactments.

These events allow visitors to step back in time and experience the city’s past firsthand.

The city is known for its impressive Soviet-era architecture.

Visitors can admire the unique architectural style and grandeur of buildings constructed during the Soviet era.

Lyubertsy is well-connected to other major cities in Russia.

Traveling to and from Lyubertsy is convenient due to its excellent transportation infrastructure.

Lyubertsy offers a high standard of living.

The city provides its residents with quality amenities, services, and a favorable quality of life.

With its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant community, Lyubertsy offers a unique and compelling experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether it’s exploring the city’s museums, enjoying the scenic beauty of its parks, or immersing oneself in its art and culture, Lyubertsy has something for everyone. Discover the charm and allure of this remarkable city and experience the warmth and hospitality of its residents.

In conclusion, Lyubertsy is a fascinating city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of attractions to explore. From its beautiful parks and gardens to its impressive architectural landmarks, Lyubertsy offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, this city has it all. So, if you’re planning a visit to Russia, be sure to include Lyubertsy in your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

Q: What is the population of Lyubertsy?

A: The population of Lyubertsy is around 180,000.

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Lyubertsy?

A: Some popular tourist attractions in Lyubertsy include Lyubertsy Museum of Local Lore, Novodevichy Cemetery, and St. Nicholas Cathedral.

Q: Is Lyubertsy a safe city for tourists?

A: Yes, Lyubertsy is generally considered to be a safe city for tourists. However, it is always recommended to exercise caution and take normal safety precautions.

Q: What is the weather like in Lyubertsy?

A: The weather in Lyubertsy can vary depending on the season. Summers are generally mild and warm, while winters can be cold with snowfall.

Q: Are there good transportation options in Lyubertsy?

A: Yes, Lyubertsy is well-connected to Moscow and other nearby cities through public transportation options like buses and trains.

Q: Are there any local specialties or dishes to try in Lyubertsy?

A: Lyubertsy is known for its delicious Russian cuisine, including dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini.

Q: Can I find accommodations in Lyubertsy?

A: Yes, there are a variety of accommodations available in Lyubertsy, ranging from hotels to guesthouses and apartments for rent.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Lyubertsy?

A: While English may not be widely spoken, many people in the tourist areas and establishments can understand and communicate in English.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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Black Georgia inmate says he was choked with a chain by jail guard while restrained

A Black inmate at a Georgia jail accused a corrections officer of choking him with a leg restraint and making a racist comment while three other officers watched, according to a lawsuit.

Tremar Harris sued three corrections officers with the Appling County Sheriff’s Office in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia on Tuesday.

The suit says that the officers "had a duty to intervene" and stop the Jan. 29, 2022, assault but that instead, they stood and watched as former corrections officer William Rentz "pulled the chain against the Plaintiff’s throat and strangled" him for about four seconds.

Rentz, who is not listed as a defendant in the lawsuit but is listed in an earlier one filed by Harris, was subsequently arrested and charged with aggravated assault, battery and violation of oath of office. The more recent suit says he was fired.

The sheriff’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Harris was a pretrial detainee in solitary confinement at the Appling County Jail, according to the suit. While he was at the jail, he was placed in a restraint chair and put in a padded cell, it says.

The suit says that Harris was able to free his right arm from the restraint on the chair and that the three defendants entered the cell to secure him with handcuffs.

"Subsequently, while standing above and behind the Plaintiff who was seated and secured in the restraint chair, Officer Rentz used the chain of an unused leg restraint and placed it across the Plaintiff’s throat," the suit says.

While Rentz choked Harris, the officer said "he was gonna put you (Plaintiff) back in the cotton field with the other boys inferring that the Plaintiff was a slave," the suit says. Rentz is white.

A photo included in the lawsuit shows the officer appearing to choke Harris with the leg restraint while the three defendants watch.

The suit says Harris was not posing a threat and feared he might die during the alleged assault.

"Plaintiff was in a state of terror and extreme fear at the time and after Officer Rentz took the chain of the leg restraint and strangled him," it says.

The three officers could not be reached for comment at phone numbers listed for them. It's not clear whether they have obtained attorneys.

Harris filed a separate federal civil lawsuit against Rentz in January. Rentz said Harris was placed in solitary confinement because he was acting erratically, court documents said. Rentz said in the documents that he believed his actions "were appropriate and necessary."

An attorney for Rentz said he had no comment beyond the lawsuit.

Harris is seeking damages against Rentz and the three officers. His attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

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Sex offender banned from using AI tools in landmark UK case

The decision could set a precedent for future monitoring of people convicted of indecent image offences

A sex offender convicted of making more than 1,000 indecent images of children has been banned from using any “AI creating tools” for the next five years in the first known case of its kind.

Anthony Dover, 48, was ordered by a UK court “not to use, visit or access” artificial intelligence generation tools without the prior permission of police as a condition of a sexual harm prevention order imposed in February.

The ban prohibits him from using tools such as text-to-image generators, which can make lifelike pictures based on a written command, and “nudifying” websites used to make explicit “deepfakes”.

Dover, who was given a community order and £200 fine, has also been explicitly ordered not to use Stable Diffusion software, which has reportedly been exploited by paedophiles to create hyper-realistic child sexual abuse material, according to records from a sentencing hearing at Poole magistrates court.

The case is the latest in a string of prosecutions where AI generation has emerged as an issue and follows months of warnings from charities over the proliferation of AI-generated sexual abuse imagery.

Last week, the government announced the creation of a new offence that makes it illegal to make sexually explicit deepfakes of over-18s without consent. Those convicted face prosecution and an unlimited fine. If the image is then shared more widely offenders could be sent to jail.

Creating, possessing and sharing artificial child sexual abuse material was already illegal under laws in place since the 1990s, which ban both real and “pseudo” photographs of under-18s. In previous years, the law has been used to prosecute people for offences involving lifelike images such as those made using Photoshop.

Recent cases suggest it is increasingly being used to deal with the threat posed by sophisticated artificial content. In one going through the courts in England, a defendant who has indicated a guilty plea to making and distributing indecent “pseudo photographs” of under-18s was bailed with conditions including not accessing a Japanese photo-sharing platform where he is alleged to have sold and distributed artificial abuse imagery, according to court records.

In another case, a 17-year-old from Denbighshire, north-east Wales, was convicted in February of making hundreds of indecent “pseudo photographs”, including 93 images and 42 videos of the most extreme category A images. At least six others have appeared in court accused of possessing, making or sharing pseudo-photographs – which covers AI generated images – in the last year.

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said the prosecutions were a “landmark” moment that “should sound the alarm that criminals producing AI-generated child sexual abuse images are like one-man factories, capable of churning out some of the most appalling imagery”.

Susie Hargreaves, the charity’s chief executive, said that while AI-generated sexual abuse imagery currently made up “a relatively low” proportion of reports, they were seeing a “slow but continual increase” in cases, and that some of the material was “highly realistic”. “We hope the prosecutions send a stark message for those making and distributing this content that it is illegal,” she said.

It is not clear exactly how many cases there have been involving AI-generated images because they are not counted separately in official data, and fake images can be difficult to tell from real ones.

Last year, a team from the IWF went undercover in a dark web child abuse forum and found 2,562 artificial images that were so realistic they would be treated by law as though they were real.

The Lucy Faithfull Foundation (LFF), which runs the confidential Stop It Now helpline for people worried about their thoughts or behaviour, said it had received multiple calls about AI images and that it was a “concerning trend growing at pace”.

It is also concerned about the use of “nudifying” tools used to create deepfake images. In one case, the father of a 12-year-old boy said he had found his son using an AI app to make topless pictures of friends.

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In another case, a caller to the NSPCC’s Childline helpline said a “stranger online” had made “fake nudes” of her. “It looks so real, it’s my face and my room in the background. They must have taken the pictures from my Instagram and edited them,” the 15-year-old said.

The charities said that as well as targeting offenders, tech companies needed to stop image generators from producing this content in the first place. “This is not tomorrow’s problem,” said Deborah Denis, chief executive at the LFF.

The decision to ban an adult sex offender from using AI generation tools could set a precedent for future monitoring of people convicted of indecent image offences.

Sex offenders have long faced restrictions on internet use, such as being banned from browsing in “incognito” mode, accessing encrypted messaging apps or from deleting their internet history. But there are no known cases where restrictions were imposed on use of AI tools.

In Dover’s case, it is not clear whether the ban was imposed because his offending involved AI-generated content, or due to concerns about future offending. Such conditions are often requested by prosecutors based on intelligence held by police. By law, they must be specific, proportionate to the threat posed, and “necessary for the purpose of protecting the public”.

A Crown Prosecution Service spokesperson said: “Where we perceive there is an ongoing risk to children’s safety, we will ask the court to impose conditions, which may involve prohibiting use of certain technology.”

Stability AI, the company behind Stable Diffusion, said the concerns about child abuse material related to an earlier version of the software, which was released to the public by one of its partners. It said that since taking over the exclusive licence in 2022 it had invested in features to prevent misuse including “filters to intercept unsafe prompts and outputs” and that it banned any use of its services for unlawful activity.

• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• The Observer
• Sex offenders register
• Online abuse
• Prisons and probation
• Crown Prosecution Service

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