In a troubling turn of events, a high school athletic director in Maryland has found himself in legal trouble. The charges? Allegedly utilizing artificial intelligence to impersonate the school’s principal in an audio recording filled with racist and antisemitic remarks, authorities revealed on Thursday.
The accused individual, Dazhon Darien, is purported to have manipulated the voice of Pikesville High School’s principal back in January. This action reportedly occurred in the aftermath of discussions regarding the non-renewal of Darien’s contract, as outlined in charging documents filed by Baltimore County police.
The principal had raised concerns regarding Darien’s job performance, which included an investigation into allegations of theft. Specifically, it was alleged that Darien had misused school funds to pay his roommate. This situation served as a backdrop to the subsequent events.
Utilizing cloning technology, Darien is said to have crafted an audio snippet where it appeared as if the principal was expressing frustration toward Black students and questioning their test-taking capabilities. Moreover, the recording purportedly captured derogatory remarks aimed at Jewish individuals and criticism towards two teachers deemed unfit for their roles.
The ramifications of this fabricated recording were swift and significant, according to court documents. Not only was the principal placed on administrative leave, but the audio clip also proliferated rapidly across social media platforms. Its dissemination triggered a deluge of hateful messages online and a barrage of calls inundating the high school’s front office.
The fallout from the recording reverberated throughout the school community, disrupting normal activities and causing some staff members to feel apprehensive about their safety.
Darien, aged 31, now faces a litany of charges, including theft, disruption of school activities, stalking, and retaliation against a witness, according to court records. As of Thursday, he remains in custody at a local jail, with bond set at $5,000.
Online records do not indicate whether Darien has legal representation at this time. Authorities have not provided further details regarding his defense or response to the allegations.