Newsroom
A court in Limassol has issued what is believed to be the first conviction in Cyprus involving crimes carried out with the use of artificial intelligence, specifically in connection with material depicting the sexual abuse of minors.
The case concerned two young defendants who admitted to the charges. According to the court, their actions form part of a growing and deeply troubling trend, as technology is increasingly being used to facilitate serious criminal activity of this kind.
In its ruling, the court stressed that offenses involving the exploitation of minors, whether through traditional means or emerging technologies, are becoming more frequent and represent a significant threat to society. It underlined the responsibility of the judiciary to uphold the law and protect public order, noting that the defendants’ conduct targeted individuals who had done nothing to provoke such behavior. The court described their actions as unacceptable, antisocial, and driven by selfish motives, adding that these factors weighed against them in determining responsibility.
Although the offenses were serious, the court imposed suspended prison sentences, taking into account the young age of the individuals involved. It also issued additional orders aimed at supporting their rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of preventing reoffending.
Due to the sensitive nature of the case, the proceedings were conducted in private. The prosecution was handled on behalf of the Attorney General by government lawyer Nadia Koliarou.
