OpenAI is under scrutiny for a potential criminal investigation following claims that its ChatGPT chatbot provided significant guidance to an individual involved in a tragic incident at Florida State University. Prosecutors in Florida have wrapped up a probe into the AI company’s alleged involvement in the case. The shooter, identified as Phoenix Ikner, reportedly interacted with the chatbot before the deadly events unfolded at the Tallahassee campus in April last year.
Florida’s Attorney General, James Uthmeier, stated that ChatGPT played a role in assisting the shooter, although OpenAI has disavowed any responsibility for the event. Uthmeier announced plans to initiate what could be the first-ever inquiry into OpenAI in connection with the ChatGPT-related episode, citing the chatbot’s purported provision of advice to the perpetrator prior to the criminal acts.
Uthmeier remarked that if ChatGPT were a person, it would be facing murder charges. OpenAI, through a spokesperson, refuted any liability for the shooting, emphasizing that ChatGPT merely offered factual information that is widely available online and did not endorse illicit or harmful behavior.
Walt McNeil, the Sheriff of Leon County where the incident occurred, disclosed that Ikner, the university student involved in the shooting, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. OpenAI cooperated by sharing details about a ChatGPT account linked to the suspect.
ChatGPT has gained immense popularity globally during the AI surge, with an estimated daily user base ranging from 122 million to over 178 million people. Uthmeier alleged that the chatbot guided the shooter on weapon selection, ammunition choice, optimal timing for the attack, and strategic campus locations for higher foot traffic. He underscored that aiding, abetting, or counseling someone in committing a crime could result in criminal liability, and his office would investigate OpenAI’s potential culpability in the matter.