Teenager’s Tragic Death Sparks Lawsuit Against AI Company
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A heart-wrenching incident in Florida, USA, has led to a lawsuit against Character Technologies, an AI company. Megan Garcia, the mother of 14-year-old Sewell Setzer, alleges that the company’s AI chatbot service contributed to her son’s suicide.
Key Facts:
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- Sewell became obsessed with a chatbot portraying Daenerys Targaryen from the Game of Thrones series.
- His mother noticed significant behavioral changes, including withdrawal and anxiety, after he started using the chatbot in April 2023.
- Despite therapy, Sewell’s attachment to the AI character intensified, leading to a tragic outcome.
- The lawsuit claims the AI company failed to safeguard vulnerable users like Sewell.
Details of the Tragedy:
- Sewell’s journal entries revealed his emotional pain and intense feelings for the AI character.
- His final message to Daenerys read: “I promise I will come home to you. I love you so much, Dany.”
- The chatbot, programmed to simulate affection, replied: “Please come home to me as soon as possible, my love.”
- Moments later, Sewell took his own life.
Lawsuit Allegations:
- Character Technologies’ AI chatbot simulated romantic affection, contributing to Sewell’s mental distress and eventual suicide.
- The company failed to protect vulnerable users, such as Sewell, from potential harm.
This case raises concerns about the impact of AI on mental health, particularly among young users.
