A teenager has been arrested following the online circulation of explicit images involving students from a school north-west of Melbourne. Victoria Police confirmed the boy has been released pending further inquiries, with the investigation ongoing.
Andrew Neal, principal of Bacchus Marsh Grammar, reported that around 50 female students were targeted. The images were created by taking photos of their faces from social media and using AI to manipulate them into obscene photographs.
"It's appalling. It is something that strikes to the heart of students, particularly girls growing up at this age," Neal said. "They should be able to learn and go about their business without this kind of nonsense."
The affected students, who are in years 9 to 12, are receiving support as the school collaborates with police to remove the images and identify those responsible. Neal suggested that the culprit is likely someone from the school, though all possibilities are being considered.
A Victoria Police spokesperson stated, "Officers were told a number of images were sent to a person in the Melton area via an online platform on Friday, June 7." The investigation remains active.
Principal Neal emphasized that this incident does not reflect the school community's values. He noted that while the school educates students on appropriate behavior, individual morals ultimately play a significant role.
