Paedophile who used real pictures of children to create AI sex abuse images convicted in 'landmark' case

A vile paedophile from Bolton who used pictures of real children to create computer-generated sex abuse images has been convicted - in what prosecutors have dubbed a 'landmark' case.

Hugh Nelson, 27, lurked in internet chatrooms, exchanging and selling computer-generated 'artwork'. He discussed child sexual abuse with others.

Nelson made £5,000 over 18 months by accepting commissions to create explicit images depicting children being harmed sexually and physically. Some of this computer-generated artwork requested used images of real children.

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Nelson also exchanged messages on chatrooms 'capable of encouraging the rape of children under 13,' prosecutors say. He pleaded guilty to a total of 16 charges relating to child sexual abuse offences at Bolton Crown Court on Friday (August 9).

His sickening acts were uncovered by Greater Manchester Police after he was first arrested in June 2023, and a number of his digital devices were seized and examined.

In July 2023 Nelson pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing indecent photographs of children and one count of publishing an obscene article. Police then examined his devices further and the CPS charged Nelson with 11 additional offences in February 2024.

On August 9, 2024, Nelson pleaded guilty to three counts of intentionally encouraging or assisting the commission of the rape of a child under the age of 13; one count of attempting to cause a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity; three counts of distributing indecent photographs of children; three counts of making indecent photographs of children; and one count of possessing prohibited