Detecting AI Images in Criminal Defense Cases
Detecting AI Images in Criminal Defense Cases
Presented at the CDAM Spring Conference 2026.
Artificial intelligence has made it possible to generate highly realistic images that never came from a camera or real-world event. These images are already appearing in criminal cases through social media, screenshots, search warrants, and digital extractions. This session equips criminal defense attorneys with practical tools to evaluate whether image evidence is authentic, synthetic, or unverifiable. Attendees will learn how AI-generated images differ from traditional photo manipulation, what red flags can be identified without specialized software, how forensic methods like metadata analysis and camera fingerprinting apply, and how emerging provenance standards affect admissibility. The focus is on actionable strategies for discovery, motions, and cross-examination.
Take-Aways:
- Identify common indicators that an image may be AI-generated or unreliable
- Know what discovery requests matter when image authenticity is disputed
- Understand when metadata, PRNU, or expert testimony can undermine image evidence
- Distinguish between meaningful provenance and self-attested digital credentials
- Apply Rule 901 and 702 principles to challenge questionable image exhibits
Detecting AI Images in Criminal Defense Cases - VIDEO REPLAY
Detecting AI Images in Criminal Defense Cases - SLIDES
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