AI-generated images fool Spokane city officials twice in six days

2026-07-21 · Source: Welcome to the Artificial Intelligence Incident Database · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, Public Safety & Security, Digital Government & E-Government · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, medium

Summary

Spokane city officials twice used AI-generated images in public communications within six days, leading to public complaints and policy reviews. The first incident involved the police department releasing an AI-fabricated photo of an officer with a rescued dog, which was initially a joke but mistakenly passed up the chain. This image contained obvious anomalies, including a flintlock pistol. The second incident saw the city distribute an AI-generated flyer for a Great Northern Clocktower restoration event that plagiarized artist Matthew Clinard's distinctive style and artwork. Both images were removed, prompting city officials to review and strengthen internal verification processes and AI usage policies, which already require disclosure for AI-generated material.

Key takeaway

For communications professionals or public sector leaders managing digital content, these incidents highlight the critical need for robust verification. You must implement strict check-and-balance procedures for all public-facing visuals, especially those sourced or created using AI. Review your organization's AI policy to mandate disclosure for AI-generated content and provide training on identifying AI fakes and ethical usage. This proactive approach prevents reputational damage and avoids unintentional plagiarism or misinformation.

Key insights

Unverified AI-generated content poses significant risks of misinformation and intellectual property infringement for public and private organizations.

Principles

• AI-generated content can be indiscernible from real images.
• Lack of malice does not mitigate risks of AI misuse.
• AI models train on copyrighted work without consent.

Method

Implement verification processes and check-and-balance procedures before sharing public images. Review and strengthen internal AI policies, including mandatory disclosure for AI-generated material.

In practice

• Conduct professional development on AI identification.
• Train employees on ethical AI usage guidelines.
• Review existing AI policies for transparency.

Topics

• AI Misinformation
• Generative AI Ethics
• Intellectual Property Theft
• Public Sector Communications
• Content Verification
• AI Policy Development

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, Policy Maker, Legal Professional, Operations Professional

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Welcome to the Artificial Intelligence Incident Database.