In a startling shift in the landscape of criminal justice, UK experts have identified a "sustained rise" in reports of organized ritual abuse—a trend directly linked to the widespread use of ChatGPT. Survivors of "satanic" sexual violence and spiritual abuse are increasingly utilizing AI as an initial form of therapy and exploration, eventually leading them to report crimes that have remained hidden for decades.
The Rise of the "Digital Confessional"
Gabrielle Shaw, CEO of the National Association of People Abused in Childhood (Napac), notes that the last 18 months have seen a significant increase in survivors reaching out after being referred by AI. "People are using ChatGPT as a form of therapy," Shaw explained, noting that while the method is unconventional, it serves as a critical gateway to professional support. Unlike traditional spikes in reporting tied to supernatural or religious calendar dates, this current trend is a steady, sustained climb.
Understanding WSPRA: A Hidden Crisis
The crimes, often categorized as "witchcraft, spirit possession, and spiritual abuse" (WSPRA), are notorious for being under-reported. They are characterized by sexual abuse, violence, and neglect intertwined with ritualistic elements used to control victims. These element may be inspired by esoteric beliefs, fascism, or satanism, and are perpetrated by diverse networks ranging from abusive families to online gangs and human traffickers.
According to 2025 research by clinical psychologist Dr. Elly Hanson, the existing 14 criminal cases acknowledged since 1982 represent only the "tip of the iceberg" regarding the true scale of the problem in the UK.
Closing the Justice Gap
One of the primary barriers to reporting has been the "fantastical" nature of ritual elements, which often leads to a "discourse of disbelief" within the legal system. To combat this, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has launched a specialist working group and rolled out training across forces to help officers handle these complex disclosures.
The reality of these crimes defies common stereotypes. Dr. Hanson emphasizes that these "regimes of cruelty" are found within privileged, white British families as often as in any other culture. Perpetrators are not always men; survivors have identified female relatives, including grandmothers and aunts, as active participants in these intergenerational networks.
A New Path to Healing
While experts have mixed feelings about using AI for trauma work, the consensus is clear: if a chatbot can bridge the gap between a victim and the police, it is a net positive for child protection. As survivors find their voice through digital interfaces, the UK system is now under pressure to ensure that the justice they seek is finally attainable.
