Key Takeaways:
- A 37-year-old Oakland County man, Joshua Stilman, has pleaded guilty to cyberstalking a social media influencer.
- Stilman created AI-generated pornographic images of the victim using public photos.
- He sent the victim private messages, asking about her sexual preferences and threatening to release the AI images if she stopped responding.
- The guilty plea demonstrates that cyberstalking, especially when amplified through artificial intelligence, is a serious offense.
- The victim’s courage in coming forward and pursuing justice has been commended by the FBI.
Introduction to the Case
The case of Joshua Stilman, a 37-year-old Oakland County man, has brought attention to the growing concern of cyberstalking and the use of artificial intelligence to create explicit content. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Stilman pleaded guilty to cyberstalking a social media influencer after creating AI-generated pornographic images of the victim using public photos. The images were created between February 2025 and March 2025, and Stilman sent the victim private messages, asking about her sexual preferences and threatening to release the AI images to her social media followers if she stopped responding to his messages.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Cyberstalking
The use of artificial intelligence to create explicit content has raised concerns about the potential for abuse and exploitation. As Jennifer Runyan, special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, noted, "Joshua Stilman’s guilty plea makes clear that cyber stalking – especially when amplified through the weaponization of artificial intelligence – is a dangerous offense, not a harmless online act." The fact that Stilman was able to create AI-generated images of the victim using public photos highlights the ease with which individuals can create and distribute explicit content without the consent of the person depicted. As Runyan stated, "Hiding behind a keyboard to intimidate and harass another person is an act of cowardice, and today’s outcome demonstrates that such behavior will be met with full accountability."
The Victim’s Courage and Pursuit of Justice
The victim in this case has been commended for her courage in coming forward and pursuing justice. Runyan noted, "I commend the extraordinary courage of the victim, whose willingness to come forward and persistence in pursuing justice made this result possible." The victim’s actions demonstrate the importance of speaking out against cyberstalking and seeking help when necessary. By reporting the incident and cooperating with law enforcement, the victim was able to bring the perpetrator to justice and help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The Consequences of Cyberstalking
The consequences of cyberstalking can be severe, both for the victim and the perpetrator. In this case, Stilman faces a maximum of five years in prison for his guilty plea. The fact that cyberstalking can result in serious consequences, including imprisonment, serves as a deterrent to potential perpetrators. As Runyan stated, "Today’s outcome demonstrates that such behavior will be met with full accountability." The guilty plea and potential sentencing of Stilman serve as a reminder that cyberstalking is a serious offense that will not be tolerated.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The case of Joshua Stilman highlights the growing concern of cyberstalking and the use of artificial intelligence to create explicit content. The guilty plea and potential sentencing of Stilman demonstrate that cyberstalking is a serious offense that will not be tolerated. The victim’s courage in coming forward and pursuing justice serves as an example to others who may be experiencing similar situations. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, it is essential to address the potential risks and consequences of its use in cyberstalking and other forms of exploitation. By working together to prevent and prosecute cyberstalking, we can create a safer and more respectful online community for all. Stilman’s sentencing is scheduled for May 21, 2026, and will serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and justice in cases of cyberstalking.
https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/michigan-man-pleads-guilty-to-cyberstalking/
