Man tells ChatGPT he plans to rape and kill his ex, ChatGPT calls FBI

According to court records, the case began after OpenAI detected a series of disturbing messages from 25-year-old Darren Zhou, who allegedly used ChatGPT to discuss plans to rape and kill his ex-girlfriend. The company reported the conversation to federal authorities, who later obtained around.

Zhou had started using ChatGPT in March, shortly after his six-month relationship with his ex-girlfriend ended. At first, he used the chatbot to talk about the breakup, his former girlfriend's interests, the places she visited, his jealousy and his desire to get back together.

What Happened

But the conversations soon took a much darker turn, with investigators saying Zhou began discussing plans involving rape, murder and suicide. In one message, Zhou allegedly wrote, "I'm gonna kill her by the end of this month," before adding, "If I can't.

• Investigators have sought access to the AI chat history as part of their probe.

• A similar case emerged in Bengaluru, where police said an accused in a triple murder had spent months using Google's Gemini chatbot while planning the killings.

• In the US, the Florida State University shooting investigation raised questions about ChatGPT after authorities said the accused had used the chatbot while researching aspects of the attack.

Key Details

In other messages, he allegedly discussed forcing her at gunpoint to go to his home, where he planned to sexually assault her and hold her hostage. Zhou even told the AI chatbot that he had access to several guns, including an AR-15-style.

• There have been several recent cases where AI tools have featured in criminal investigations.

• Meanwhile, the incident has also brought attention to how increasingly people are turning to AI chatbots while discussing sensitive and, in some cases, disturbing topics.

• He is also prohibited from using drugs or alcohol, possessing guns or contacting his former girlfriend.

Why It Matters

According to the records, he claimed to have sent his ex photographs of guns, zip ties and latex gloves. In another message to the chatbot, he allegedly wrote, "I texted her I was gonna rape her tonight."

• Under the deal, he must wear an ankle monitor for the first two years, complete a batterer intervention programme and undergo a mental health evaluation.

• Circuit Judge Scott Suskauer sentenced Zhou to eight years of probation.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by India Today as more details emerge