AI prompts as intent evidence

Prosecutors are not just using chat logs as factual records—they’re using AI prompt history to suggest motive and intent (mens rea). In this case, a July image request for a burning city and a New Year’s query about cigarette‑caused fires were cited alongside phone logs to rebut an innocent narrative. — If AI histories are read as windows into intent, courts will need clearer rules on context, admissibility, and privacy, reshaping criminal procedure and digital rights.