The use of artificial intelligence in the police and judicial investigation of online child sex grooming crimes in Spain

The utilization of artificial intelligence in the investigation of online child sex grooming offences emerges as a promising tool to enhance the efficacy in detecting and prosecuting these crimes. This phenomenon, affecting an increasing number of minors, presents significant challenges for law enforcement due to the vast amount of data they must analyse. The Spanish legislation, in alignment with European directives, mandates the adoption of measures that facilitate the investigation of OCSG, permitting the analysis of child pornographic material in the cyberspace. Moreover, following the approval of the Intelligence Artificial Act 2024, the use of AI tools within the criminal justice system has been clearly sanctioned. This study examines the legal viability of incorporating AI into police and judicial investigations, underscoring the necessity for a regulatory framework that supports its use and advocates for protecting the victims' rights.