Bridgeport, WV – A former Harrison County deputy sheriff and D.A.R.E. officer has been arrested following a disturbing investigation involving the alleged use of artificial intelligence to create nude images of a child, according to the West Virginia State Police.
Authorities say the case highlights growing concerns over the misuse of emerging technology and the serious criminal consequences tied to it.
Former Deputy Identified in AI Image Investigation
State police identified the suspect as Larry Brewer, 47, of Clarksburg, West Virginia. Investigators allege that Brewer used an AI image-generation tool to create nude images of a juvenile, an act that has led to multiple felony charges.
Officials say the investigation began earlier in 2025 after the images were discovered on Brewer’s iPad. Law enforcement sources described the content as obscene and involving a minor, prompting an in-depth criminal probe.
Charges Filed and Court Proceedings
Brewer has been charged with three counts of employment or use of a minor to produce obscene matter or assist in sexually explicit conduct, serious felony offenses under West Virginia law.
Following his arrest on Tuesday, Brewer entered a not guilty plea during his initial court appearance. He was later released after posting a $100,000 bond, which could be paid in cash, surety, or property, according to court records.
Authorities have not released details about the identity of the juvenile involved, citing privacy protections for minors.
Sheriff’s Office Addresses Brewer’s Employment History
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office issued a public statement Tuesday afternoon clarifying Brewer’s employment status at the time of the alleged crimes. Officials confirmed that Brewer voluntarily left the sheriff’s office in July 2022 to accept a position with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The sheriff’s office emphasized that the alleged offenses occurred after Brewer left their agency, noting that the investigation centers on conduct believed to have taken place over the past two years.
“As always, it is the policy of the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office to expect and ensure that all members and employees adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards while performing law enforcement duties,” the statement read. “We remain fully committed to protecting the citizens we serve and maintaining public trust.”
Timeline of the Investigation
According to authorities, the investigation formally began around March 2025, after the illicit images were discovered. Detectives worked to determine how the images were created, ultimately concluding that AI technology was used to generate the content.
The case underscores the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement as artificial intelligence tools become more accessible and increasingly capable of producing realistic — and potentially illegal — content.
New West Virginia Law Targets AI-Generated Child Exploitation
The arrest comes amid recent legislative action in West Virginia aimed at combating AI-assisted child exploitation. In July, the West Virginia Legislature passed Senate Bill 198, which explicitly prohibits the creation, production, distribution, or possession of artificially generated child pornography.
Under SB198, individuals convicted of such crimes could face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000. However, officials noted that the investigation into Brewer began before the law took effect, meaning the charges were filed under existing statutes.
Despite this, prosecutors say the case demonstrates why the new law was necessary and how lawmakers are attempting to stay ahead of rapidly advancing technology.
Officials have not commented on whether additional charges could be filed or whether federal authorities may become involved as the case progresses.
What Happens Next
Brewer is expected to return to court for future hearings as the case moves forward. Prosecutors will continue reviewing digital evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are urging the public to report any suspected exploitation of children, whether involving traditional media or emerging technologies such as AI.
What are your thoughts on AI and criminal accountability? Should penalties for AI-generated child exploitation be even stricter as technology advances? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion.
