Paris prosecutors investigating the creation of child sexual images by Grok, a deepfake AI tool, have expressed disappointment after Elon Musk failed to appear for a voluntary interview. The case, which involves allegations of complicity in child pornography and other charges, is one of several international legal actions against xAI. Musk’s absence comes as the US Department of Justice refused to assist the French investigation, citing concerns over free speech.

The Paris prosecutor’s office opened an inquiry into xAI’s algorithms in January 2025 after complaints that they were biased and used to interfere in French politics. The probe expanded to include five suspected criminal offenses, including complicity in possessing and spreading pornographic images of minors, distribution of sexually explicit deepfakes, and denial of crimes against humanity.

Grok’s image generation capabilities allowed users to upload photographs of real women and girls, receiving sexualized or nude versions without the subjects’ consent. The Center for Countering Digital Hate estimated that Grok generated approximately 3 million sexualised images between December 29, 2025, and January 8, 2026.

The investigation has sparked a global response, with several countries blocking Grok entirely or launching their own investigations. France is not acting alone in this matter; Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, the European Commission, and others have also taken action against xAI.

In related news, Linda Yaccarino, the former CEO of X, was called to testify before Paris prosecutors. Other X employees are scheduled to be heard as witnesses throughout this week. Weeks prior to the summons, Musk referred to French authorities as “retards” in a post on X.

The US Department of Justice’s refusal to assist the French investigation has sparked debate over free speech and the regulation of AI-generated content. The Paris prosecutor’s office responded by stating that the French constitution guarantees the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary.

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