Florida Attorney General Investigates OpenAI Over Mass Shooting and Minor Safety

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier launched an investigation into OpenAI and its chatbot, ChatGPT, on April 9, 2026. The probe focuses on whether the company's technology contributed to criminal activity or caused harm to minors, specifically citing links to cases of minor suicide and self-harm. Uthmeier also raised national security concerns, alleging that OpenAI's data could be exploited by the Chinese Communist Party.

A central element of the investigation is the April 17, 2025, mass shooting at Florida State University that killed two people. Authorities allege the suspect, Phoenix Ikner, used ChatGPT to research the busiest times at the student union before the attack. Parallel to the state probe, the family of victim Robert Morales is preparing a lawsuit claiming OpenAI identified the suspect as a risk but failed to notify law enforcement.

Uthmeier announced that subpoenas are forthcoming and called on the Florida Legislature to implement stronger AI protections for children. Meanwhile, Congressman Jimmy Patronis used the investigation to advocate for the SHIELD Act, which seeks to repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act to remove liability immunity for online platforms. OpenAI has stated it is cooperating with law enforcement; the investigation comes as the company prepares for an initial public offering and develops a new cybersecurity-focused AI model.