Date
4-29-2026
Department
Helms School of Government
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (PhD)
Chair
Jared L. Perry
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence, synthetic media, deepfakes, criminal justice system, digital evidence, AI crime, AI detection, AI and law enforcement
Disciplines
Computer Sciences
Recommended Citation
Jacobs, Jeffrey J., "Artificial Intelligence, Synthetic Media, and The Criminal Justice System" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8254.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8254
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies continue to evolve at an exponential pace, and their utilization of synthetic media in criminal activity presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges for criminal justice systems. This dissertation explores the intersection of AI-driven synthetic media crime and the U.S. criminal justice system, identifying how such technologies are being utilized in criminal activity and evaluating the system’s capacity to adapt. This study uses a longitudinal, mixed-methods research design; it also collects and analyzes data from law enforcement agencies, AI developers, and cybersecurity experts to forecast future crime trends and assess the efficacy of current justice system responses. Key research questions examine the system’s adaptability and the effectiveness of legal reforms in mitigating synthetic media crimes. A thorough literature review reveals a critical gap in understanding how the accelerating capabilities of AI outpace the criminal justice system’s adaptation. This dissertation addresses that gap by offering original insight into the implications of criminal justice system responses and adaptations to AI-generated crime for the continuity of due process and systemic resilience. This dissertation utilizes a longitudinal research design complemented by predictive correlation via Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) regression analysis to examine the evolving prevalence of AI-driven synthetic media crimes and assesses the criminal justice system’s capacity to respond effectively over time. Ultimately, this study contributes to the foundation for future research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, synthetic media, and criminal justice reform.
