Marion County Prosecutor Investigates Deepfake Allegation Involving Lawmaker's Wife

Investigation into Alleged Deepfake Video Involving Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith’s Office

An ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office concerning an alleged incident involving the office of Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith. The situation has sparked significant concern and calls for accountability from various officials, including State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Indianapolis).

Haggard recently revealed that he learned about the incident last week, when a staff member in the Lt. Governor’s Office allegedly created and shared a pornographic deepfake video of his wife to other employees. According to reports, the video was modified from an existing clip of Haggard’s wife singing at a charity talent show earlier this year.

Although Haggard has not personally seen the video, he has emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and called for those responsible to be held accountable if the video exists. “If true, this is a very serious allegation,” Haggard stated. “It’s a federal crime.”

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has not confirmed or denied whether it is investigating the incident. A spokesperson for the office explained that during the investigatory process, there are many factors that need to be examined. “We can’t say anything publicly until we’re in a position to make a charging decision or announcement,” said Ryan Mears, the Marion County Prosecutor.

In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the Indiana Governor’s Office stated that the governor does not have authority over the human resources matters of the Lieutenant Governor’s office or any elected official. However, Governor Mike Braun expressed his stance on the matter, saying, “If it were in my office, there would be quick action and full accountability. I would expect that to be the case there as well.”

Haggard has been vocal about his disappointment with how state leaders have responded so far. He is calling for an independent investigation into the alleged incident and believes that dismissing the claim is unacceptable. “At a minimum, you still look into it,” Haggard said. “To just dismiss it is almost as bad as the incident itself, because what you’re saying is that you don’t care.”

Haggard also mentioned that he attempted to reach out to Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray (R-Martinsville) for answers but did not receive much support. He claimed that Bray told him he didn’t care and advised him not to involve the Senate leader. Bray strongly denied these claims, stating that he has no control over the employees of the Lt. Governor’s office.

Haggard also spoke with Lt. Gov. Beckwith about the allegations, and Beckwith reportedly told him that he doesn’t believe the allegations are true. Despite this, Haggard remains firm in his belief that if the allegations are true, the individual responsible should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

FOX59/CBS4 reached out to the Lt. Governor’s Office multiple times for comment before airing this story. As of the article’s publication, the station has yet to receive an official statement from the office.

This incident highlights the growing concerns around the use of deepfake technology and the potential harm it can cause. It also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public office. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring that all allegations are thoroughly examined and that appropriate actions are taken if necessary.