Clark County man sentenced to 90 years for child pornography, AI-generated images

AMITY, Ark. – A Clark County man was sentenced to 90 years in prison for possession of child pornography, which also included AI-generated images that depicted real people in the community.

Ethan Tanner Fagan, 33, pleaded guilty following his conviction on 30 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. The sentence includes 10 years plus a 15-year suspended imposition of sentence for the production of CSAM and six years for promoting obscene material.

According to Arkansas State Police, an investigation began on April 27, 2024, after authorities received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. During the investigation, special agents said child pornography and AI-generated images showing CSAM and other explicit material were found.

ASP investigators said the AI-images depicted real children and adults from Clark County and surrounding communities. Investigators said it was also revealed that Fagan exchanged illegal images with a person in Ohio.

“This case highlights the evolving challenges law enforcement faces with technology. Our commitment is unwavering to identify, investigate, and bring to justice those who exploit children, whether through traditional means or emerging tools like AI,” said Arkansas State Police Sergeant Corwin Battle, Commander of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

ASP officials said this marks the first time a conviction and sentencing were made involving the use of AI.