TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced on Monday morning that the criminal investigation into OpenAI is expanding to include the recent murders at the University of South Florida (USF).

According to Uthmeier, this decision comes after it was revealed that the primary suspect in the case, Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, had used the AI application ChatGPT.

The initial investigation was announced on April 21 after a review of chat logs between ChatGPT and the gunman involved in a shooting at Florida State University (FSU) last year, identified as Phoenix Ikner.

“Florida is leading the way in cracking down on AI’s use in criminal behavior, and if ChatGPT were a person, it would be facing charges for murder,” Uthmeier stated. He noted that this criminal inquiry aims to determine whether OpenAI could be held responsible for the actions of ChatGPT during the shooting incident at FSU.

See also: ‘Incredibly dangerous’: Florida launches criminal investigation into OpenAI

Mark Glass, the Commissioner of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, echoed these concerns, stating, “It is important that all are aware of the risks of this new technology and the harms it can and has already caused in our communities. Educating ourselves is vital to protecting ourselves and our loved ones from potential threats.”

Under Florida law, individuals who assist or counsel someone committing a crime may be held just as responsible as the perpetrator themselves.

Uthmeier stated that this raises questions about the liability of AI applications in criminal activities.

The Office of Statewide Prosecution has issued subpoenas to OpenAI, requesting extensive information, including:

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Policies and training materials related to user threats of harm to others and themselves.Guidelines on cooperation with law enforcement and reporting crimes.Organizational charts and employee details associated with ChatGPT.The investigation will also examine any media and statements related to the FSU shooting that occurred on April 17, 2025.