Kilrea man accused of string of assaults claims 'tech-savvy' ex-partner used AI to make 'fake' images of injuries
A 'tech-savvy' woman who was allegedly assaulted several times by her now former partner, may have faked images of injuries by using AI, a defence barrister has claimed.
The comment was made at Antrim Magistrates' Court, sitting in Ballymena on Tuesday, October 13, where the 31-year-old defendant is accused of non-fatal strangulation and allegedly assaulting his partner a number of times last year and this year.
Liam William McClune, of Lismoyle Road near Kilrea is also accused of domestic abuse and other charges including criminal damage to a mobile phone.
The defendant appeared at court via video link from a police station.
The court was told the woman claimed the defendant grabbed her by the throat and threw her to the ground. He kicked and punched her and pulled her by the hair allegedly.
McClune allegedly became "very controlling" and is accused of grabbing her hair and throat on another occasion.
The woman also alleged she was punched on the side of the head and in the ribs last December, the court heard.
On another occasion he allegedly "stripped her clothes off forcefully" and punched her nose.
McClune allegedly headbutted her on the cheek and and on another occasion he punched her to the side of the head causing her to see "stars", the court heard.
The defendant allegedly breached pre-charge bail conditions on a number of occasions.
The woman told police she was "living in constant fear of" the defendant.
When interviewed, McClune made denials to police.
The court was told the woman supplied police with photos of "torn clothing, bruising to an eye" and other images of bruising.
A defence barrister said McClune said the alleged injured party was "very tech-savvy" and "there is a concern there has been some use of AI or some means of inventing these injuries".
The lawyer said in unrelated cases he has seen "a lot more AI and ChatGPT" and added: "Whilst a few years ago it may have been an outlandish submission, we would say it is very much relevant in today's world in terms of what can be done. He has given that account to police".
District Judge Peter Magill refused bail.
The defendant was remanded in custody and the case was adjourned to November 10.