Gaps in sexual offences law hampering police efforts to combat deepfakes
- Home Affairs plans amendments to the Sexual Offences Law 2020.
- The proposals aim to address the challenges posed by AI in sexual offending.
- There will be nine areas of focus, including new offences related to intimate imagery.
- Amendments aim to close gaps identified by Guernsey Police and Law Officers.
- The proposed changes will enhance protections for victims and the community.
Home Affairs has announced its intention to prepare amendments to the Sexual Offences Law in recognition of the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in sexual offending.
The amendments target nine specific areas, primarily concerning sexual imagery, and aim to address gaps in legislation that have emerged since the law was enacted more than a decade ago.
In response to feedback from Guernsey Police and Law Officers, the proposed reforms seek to tackle issues such as voyeurism and the non-consensual creation of images.
Deepfake creation involving intimate images without consent will become an explicit offence under the new proposals. Furthermore, making or sharing intimate images without consent will also be criminalised.
The set of new offences will include:
- Cyberflashing
- Requesting deepfakes
- Possession of indecent cartoons or drawings of children
Additionally, the amendments will expand the application of Risk of Sexual Harm Orders a preventive measure that enables courts to safeguard children from potential harm.
This follows similar enhancements made in England and Wales in 2015, allowing for proactive measures against offenders.
Home Affairs President Deputy Marc Leadbeater said: “Today we have directed officers to start preparing a policy letter regarding amendments to the Sexual Offences legislation, to ensure it is up to date and capable of dealing with new, emerging offences.”
He highlighted the Committee's concern regarding the recent cases involving intimate AI images and the urgency to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm.
Detective Inspector Thomas Lowe further said: “In recent months, the Criminal Investigation Department has carried out investigations where AI technology has been involved in potential offending.
"While we investigated each case, it quickly became clear there were gaps in the legislation.”
He underscored the severe impact of deepfakes and voyeurism on victims, stating, “Our main goal is always to safeguard victims and ensure offenders are brought to justice, and I hope these new amendments, when passed, will allow us to do that more effectively."
Comments ()