Athletic Director Charged in Pikesville High School AI Case

ORIGINAL MARCH 25, 2024

On Thursday, April 25, 31-year-old Dazhon Darien was arrested on charges of stalking, theft, disruption of school operations, and retaliation against a witness. The charges stem from an investigation detectives with the Baltimore County Police Department launched on January 17, 2024, in reference to a voice recording that was being circulated on social media. At the time, it was alleged the voice on the audio file was that of Pikesville High School Principal Eric Eiswert.

Based on an extensive investigation, detectives now have conclusive evidence the recording was not authentic. As part of their investigation, detectives requested a forensic analyst contracted with the FBI to analyze the recording. The results from that analysis indicated the recording contained traces of AI-generated content. Following that finding, detectives obtained a second opinion from a forensic analyst with the University of California, Berkley who also determined the recording was not authentic. Based on that information and further investigation, it’s been determined the recording was generated through the use of artificial intelligence technology.

It's believed Mr. Darien, who was an Athletic Director at Pikesville High School, made the recording to retaliate against Mr. Eiswert who at the time was pursuing an investigation into the potential mishandling of school funds.

Mr. Darien now faces several charges including theft, stalking, disruption of school operations, and retaliation against a witness. Following a court appearance this afternoon, Mr. Darien was released on a $5,000 unsecured bond.