Alleged victims in a multi-jurisdictional investigation involving AI-generated deepfakes of sexual violence and torture are raising concerns about the adequacy of the Ottawa Police Service’s support protocols. While the force publicly described its investigation as “trauma-informed” in a May 29 news release, several women involved in the case report feeling dismissed, under-informed, and inadequately supported by investigators and provincial victim services.
Discrepancies in the Investigative Approach
The Ottawa Police Service is leading the investigation into the creation and distribution of AI-manipulated content involving more than 50 alleged victims. Stephen Lowe of Maitland, N.S., faces 79 charges, including harassment, uttering threats, and the production of obscene and child sexual abuse material. Gregry Peter Van Beek of West Nipissing, Ont., has also been charged in connection with the case.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/parliament-hill-in-fall--ottawa--ontario--canada-1064713266-b595c67f48ca4778a985b13bb598ba04.jpg "Discrepancies in the Investigative Approach")
Despite the police department’s public assertion of a “trauma-informed” process, women who spoke with reporters described experiences that conflicted with that description. One 49-year-old woman stated that an officer initially told her there was only one image of her, though she later discovered dozens of graphic, manipulated photos online. Another victim alleged that investigators appeared to want her reaction to the images recorded on camera during her visit to the station.
Did You Know? The lead investigator identified in court documents, Det. Const. Dakota Bashford, had been with the criminal investigations unit for two years when the case began in September 2025.
Challenges with Victim Support Services
Alleged victims report significant gaps in accessing mental health resources and information regarding the criminal justice system. Specifically, women identified the Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) as a point of frustration, citing delays in communication and a lack of proactive outreach. One 39-year-old woman noted that while she received a message from the program two months after her initial contact, her return call went unanswered.
Expert Insight: The disconnect between the institutional definition of “trauma-informed” care and the lived experience of the victims highlights a recurring challenge in complex digital-crime investigations. When agencies rely on standardized protocols for a high volume of victims—now exceeding 50 in this case—the individual need for safety planning and emotional support can sometimes be overshadowed by the procedural demands of the criminal investigation.
Future Implications for Legal Proceedings
As the case progresses, the capacity of provincial systems to manage the needs of a large, growing pool of victims remains in question. Julia Facca, press secretary for Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey, stated that the province plans to invest more than $500 million by 2027-2028 to address court backlogs and increase staffing, including victim support roles.
However, immediate concerns persist regarding how victims can monitor court dates and access therapy. While some victims in Nova Scotia reported receiving offers for three years of funded therapy, those in Ontario and other jurisdictions continue to express difficulty in obtaining basic information. It is likely that as AI-driven exploitation cases continue to rise, the pressure on these support programs to scale their services will increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary allegations against the accused?
Stephen Lowe is facing 79 charges, including harassment, uttering threats, and the possession and publication of obscene and child sexual abuse material. A second man, Gregry Peter Van Beek, has also been charged.
How does the Ottawa Police Service define a “trauma-informed” investigation?
According to Insp. Pascal Labine, the force defines this as keeping victims informed at every step, ensuring victims do not have to repeat their stories multiple times, and allowing victims to disclose information at their own pace.
What is the purpose of the Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP)?
VWAP is a provincial, court-based program designed to provide information and support to help victims understand and participate in the criminal court process, as well as to refer them to community-based therapy resources.
How should digital safety and victim support evolve to keep pace with the rapid rise of AI-generated exploitation?