(LIMA) - A Lima woman is facing federal charges after investigators say she used artificial intelligence-generated images as part of a blackmail scheme that allegedly extorted more than $80,000 from a family.
Federal court documents identify the suspect as Crystal Cisco, 46.
According to investigators, Cisco used her relationship with the family's adult daughter to create a false story involving an alleged sex video. Authorities allege she then threatened to release the purported material unless the family paid her money.
Court documents state that AI-generated images were used to support the false claims made during the alleged extortion scheme.
Investigators say the family made initial payments before Cisco allegedly demanded additional money. The family then contacted the Allen County Sheriff's Office.
The Allen County Sheriff's Office and the FBI launched an investigation and coordinated a sting operation.
According to investigators, Cisco was recorded on video and audio accepting what authorities described as "sham money" provided under law enforcement supervision.
The FBI arrested Cisco on May 4.
Federal court records show Cisco is charged with wire fraud, extortion, receiving proceeds of extortion and interstate communications with intent to extort.
Investigators also allege the scheme may have targeted elderly and vulnerable victims.
The case remains under investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with information or who believes they may have been affected to contact the FBI's Lima office at 419-223-7761 or 419-949-5050.