AI deepfakes at the centre of a multi-agency investigation in Ottawa - CityNews Halifax
An investigation in Ottawa led to the arrest of two men who allegedly used AI to create deepfake images of women, prompting charges related to harassment and online exploitation.
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Target
- Several female victims
A multi-jurisdictional police investigation led to the arrests of two men accused of exploiting female victims through AI-generated deepfakes. The case, which originated in Ottawa, highlights the increasing challenges of technology-facilitated abuse.
What happened
Police received a report of harmful online content depicting a victim, which triggered the investigation. The focus was on potential criminal harassment and the online exploitation of women through the creation and distribution of "harmful sexual content without consent," including AI deepfakes. The investigation expanded beyond eastern Ontario, involving police from other areas. Two men, Stephen Lowe and Gregry Van Beek, were arrested and face multiple charges, including harassment, uttering threats, and publishing obscene material.