Police Across United States Warn of 'Stupid' and 'Dangerous' AI Homeless Man Prank

Law enforcement agencies nationwide are urging the public to stop participating in a viral stunt dubbed the “AI homeless man prank,” warning that the trend is reckless, demeaning, and could lead to real danger.

The prank involves using artificial intelligence to generate convincing images of a man appearing at someone’s door or even inside their home. These manipulated photos are then sent to family or roommates as a scare tactic. In many cases, the recipients believe the images are real and call 911, triggering police responses.

Authorities say the prank has already caused chaotic situations across the country. In Colorado, the Fountain Police Department said it mobilized “every available police officer” after a mother reported what she thought was a burglary. According to the department, the woman had received a message from her daughter claiming, “some strange guy just walked into the house asking to use the restroom.” When the daughter failed to respond to follow-up calls or texts, her mother dialed 911. Police rushed to the home prepared for a possible break-in, only to discover the entire episode was part of the prank.

Similar reports have surfaced in New York, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Departments from Yonkers to Salem have issued public warnings. Salem Police issued one of the strongest statements, blasting the hoax as “stupid and potentially dangerous.” The department cautioned: “This prank dehumanizes the homeless, causes the distressed recipient to panic and wastes police resources.”

Other agencies are stressing how quickly these false alarms could spiral out of control leading to violent confrontations or delayed responses to genuine emergencies.

Police are also reminding communities that filing a false emergency report carries legal consequences. Depending on local and state laws, callers could face steep fines or even jail time. Officials are asking parents and guardians to discuss the seriousness of this trend with children and teenagers.

The push to turn a federal indictment into a financial rallying cry has drawn criticism not only from Republicans but from ethics watchdogs who question the blurred line between campaign fundraising and legal defense.

James is scheduled to appear in federal court in Virginia on October 24th.

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Police Across United States Warn of 'Stupid' and 'Dangerous' AI Homeless Man Prank