Colchester Man Jailed for Child Sexual Offences Using AI Technology

Cosmin Cercel, a 30-year-old man from Colchester, was sentenced to five years and four months in prison for multiple child sexual offences, including the use of AI technology to create indecent images. The investigation began in December 2025 after a victim reported the abuse to their mother. Detectives uncovered a significant volume of indecent material on Cercel's phone, leading to the identification of a second victim. He was charged with attempted rape, sexual assault on a child under 13, and several counts related to indecent images. Cercel denied the attempted rape charge but pleaded guilty to nine other offences. He has been placed on the sex offenders' register and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. The case highlights the dangers of AI technology being misused for child exploitation. Families of the victims expressed gratitude to the police for their swift investigation.

Key Points: • Cosmin Cercel was sentenced to over five years for child sexual offences involving AI. • The investigation revealed multiple victims and extensive use of AI to create indecent images. • Cercel has been placed on the sex offenders' register and faces ongoing legal restrictions.