Ireland has seen a significant increase in prosecutions related to the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, with cases brought under “Coco’s Law” rising by 41.5 percent last year. A total of 75 prosecutions were initiated in 2025, up from 53 in the previous year, according to new figures released by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). This surge reflects a growing effort to address digital privacy violations and online abuse, but also raises concerns about the evolving tactics used by perpetrators, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence.
Since Coco’s Law – formally known as the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020 – came into effect in February 2021, the ODPP has initiated 240 prosecutions. The law criminalizes the sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent, and also targets other forms of harmful online communication. The increasing number of cases demonstrates a greater willingness of victims to come forward and report these offenses, as well as increased awareness of the legislation itself.
A Rising Tide of Prosecutions
The 75 prosecutions in 2025 represent a substantial jump from the 43 cases seen in 2023, nearly doubling the number. Even earlier figures show a steady climb: 49 cases were taken in 2022, and just 8 in 2021. Already in 2026, 12 cases have been pursued, indicating that this trend is likely to continue. Convictions under Coco’s Law can result in prison sentences of up to three years in the circuit court.
The figures were provided to the Dáil by Minister for Justice, Migration and Home Affairs, Jim O’Callaghan TD, in response to a query from Cork North Central TD, Padraig O’Sullivan (FF). Minister O’Callaghan emphasized that the decision to prosecute rests solely with the ODPP, ensuring independence in the process.
Concerns Over AI-Generated Abuse
The rise in prosecutions coincides with growing anxieties about the potential for artificial intelligence to exacerbate the problem of non-consensual intimate image sharing. Last month, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed concern that AI technologies could be used to generate deeply offensive and non-consensual content, potentially requiring a strengthening of Coco’s Law to address this new threat. This concern highlights the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement and policymakers in combating online abuse.
The potential for AI to create realistic but fabricated intimate images presents a unique challenge, as it removes the necessitate to obtain actual images from a victim. This could lead to a significant increase in the volume of harmful content circulating online and craft it more difficult to identify and prosecute perpetrators. The legal framework may need to adapt to address the specific challenges posed by AI-generated abuse.
A Recent Case in County Clare
One recent case brought by the ODPP illustrates the types of offenses being prosecuted under Coco’s Law. A 20-year-old man from County Clare has been returned for trial at Ennis Circuit Court, accused of posting a collage of intimate images of a 15-year-old girl on his Snapchat stories. He faces three charges related to the alleged posting of the images in November 2022, shortly after turning 18. This case underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating these offenses and the potential consequences for those involved.
The ODPP’s pursuit of this case, and the increasing number of prosecutions sends a clear message that the sharing of intimate images without consent will not be tolerated. It also highlights the importance of reporting such incidents to the authorities and seeking support if you have been a victim of this type of abuse.
As the legal landscape continues to evolve in response to new technologies and emerging threats, Coco’s Law remains a vital tool in protecting individuals from the devastating harm caused by the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. The ODPP is expected to continue to prioritize these cases, and further updates on prosecution numbers and legislative changes are anticipated in the coming months.
Anyone affected by image-based sexual abuse can find support and information from organizations like the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and the National Women’s Council of Ireland. If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available.
The next update on Coco’s Law prosecutions is expected to be released by the ODPP in the second quarter of 2026, providing a further indication of the impact of the legislation and the ongoing efforts to combat online abuse.
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