Florida criminal probe into OpenAI and ChatGPT is now underway after state officials announced an investigation tied to last year’s deadly shooting at Florida State University.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said Tuesday that the state has opened a criminal inquiry into OpenAI and its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, to determine whether the company could bear responsibility connected to the incident.
The shooting at Florida State University left two people dead and six others injured in April last year. Officers shot and hospitalized the suspect, who was later charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.
Florida Criminal Probe Into OpenAI and ChatGPT Focuses on Chatbot Responses
During a press briefing, Uthmeier alleged that the chatbot gave the suspect information about firearms, ammunition compatibility and whether a gun would be effective at short range.
He argued that if a human had provided the same guidance, prosecutors would consider criminal charges.
According to the attorney general’s office, the investigation will examine whether OpenAI bears criminal responsibility for ChatGPT’s role in the shooting.
The Office of Statewide Prosecution has also subpoenaed OpenAI for records and additional information.
OpenAI Responds to the Investigation
An OpenAI spokesperson told U.S. media that the shooting was a tragedy, but said the company was not responsible for what happened.
The spokesperson added that after learning about the case, OpenAI identified a ChatGPT account believed to be linked to the suspect and proactively shared that information with law enforcement.
The company also said ChatGPT provided factual responses based on information widely available on public internet sources and did not encourage or promote illegal or harmful activity.
Growing Scrutiny Around AI Safety
The case adds to broader concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and how such systems may be used.
Debates around AI already include fears about rising electricity demand from data centers, job disruption, fraud, interference in democratic systems and the possibility that AI tools could help users plan criminal acts.
Now, Florida’s criminal probe into OpenAI and ChatGPT places another spotlight on how regulators may approach accountability when AI tools are linked to real-world harm.
What Comes Next
The investigation is still in its early stages, and officials have not announced any charges.
For now, attention will likely center on the subpoenaed records, the chatbot’s responses and whether existing laws can be applied to AI systems in cases involving violence.
The outcome could become an important test of how governments handle future cases involving artificial intelligence and criminal liability.
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