Associated Incidents
CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — The Richland School District has announced that an investigation is underway after students used artificial intelligence (AI) to create “obscene images” of students.
The school said that on Thursday, Nov. 14 the district became aware of an incident in which students used AI to create and send inappropriate images of other students. They added that an investigation into the situation is already underway and the Richland Police Department, Children and Youth Services and Childline were notified.
“First and foremost, the Richland School District takes such incidents seriously, and we will pursue this matter legally and to the fullest extent of the law while ensuring due process,” Superintendent of Schools, Arnold Nadonley said in a release.
A full release from the school can be found below:
*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ***
Inappropriate Use of Artificial Intelligence Incident at Richland High School
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Richland School District became aware of an incident in which some secondary students used artificial intelligence (AI) to create and electronically distribute obscene images of Richland students. Within minutes of learning of this situation, an official investigation began, which included notifying the Richland Police Department, Children and Youth Services, and Childline. In addition, individual parents were notified.
First and foremost, the Richland School District takes such incidents seriously, and we will pursue this matter legally and to the fullest extent of the law while ensuring due process. Further, this lack of judgment does not represent the feelings and actions of our student body of 1,540 students. At the same time, we are extremely thankful to the students who came forward to report this incident and who understand the importance of "See Something-Say Something." Over the past ten (10) years, our parents, staff, community, and local media know we have made a concerted effort to be transparent and release events, even when it is not positive. However, in cases like this, when a police investigation begins, it is not always possible to immediately release information so as not to hinder an investigation or tip-off actors. We appreciate the public's trust and patience.
That being said, we strongly encourage our students and the police to refrain from taking to social media, citing names, or making unfounded accusations because such actions only slow down investigations. We encourage individuals to contact Officer Scott Shope, the School Resource Officer employed by the Richland Township Police Department, at 814-266-6081 or sshope@richlandsd.com
Under federal and state privacy laws, the district cannot share students' names or specific informaiton. Respectfully, you would not want that to happen to your child or children, and we ask you honor that.
For further information, contact Arnold J. Nadonley, Superintendent of Schools, at 814-266-6063