SHAH ALAM - OpenAI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and ChatGPT creator Sam Altman has vehemently denied sexual abuse allegations levelled against him by his sister, Ann Altman.
Filed in a Missouri court, the lawsuit accuses Sam of abuse spanning nearly a decade, a claim his family has categorically dismissed as "utterly untrue."
Allegations Filed Against Sam Altman
Ann, Sam’s younger sister, filed a lawsuit on Jan 6, in United States (US) District Court in Missouri. In her filing, Ann alleged that her brother sexually abused her between 1997 and 2006, starting when she was just three years old and Sam was 12.
The accusations include claims of grooming, psychological manipulation and severe acts of sexual abuse, including rape, molestation and sodomy.
According to Ann, the alleged abuse persisted even after Sam reached adulthood, when she was still a minor. She claimed that the trauma resulted in significant physical injuries, emotional distress and depression, necessitating costly medical and mental health treatments.
In addition to these claims, Ann is seeking a jury trial and damages exceeding $75,000.
Sam Altman and Family Respond
Sam categorically denied the allegations in a joint statement shared on the platform X (formerly Twitter), co-signed by his mother, Connie Altman and two brothers, Jack and Max Altman.
The family described the accusations as “utterly untrue” and expressed concern for Ann’s well-being.
“Our family loves Annie and is very concerned about her well-being. Caring for a family member who faces mental health challenges is incredibly difficult. Annie has made deeply hurtful and entirely untrue claims about our family and especially Sam,” the statement read.
Sam further elaborated that he has consistently supported his sister financially, including covering her rent and bills, offering to buy her a house and providing monthly payments. He claimed that despite these efforts, Ann continues to demand additional financial support.
“Over the years, we have tried in many ways to support Annie and help her find stability. But Ann has refused to accept conventional treatment for her mental health challenges,” the family added.
Media Attention and OpenAI’s Future
The lawsuit has brought significant public attention, given Sam’s high-profile position as the head of OpenAI, the organisation responsible for the revolutionary ChatGPT.
Since its launch in late 2022, ChatGPT has cemented Sam as a leader in the generative artificial intelligence (AI) industry. However, this legal battle poses potential reputational risks for both Sam and OpenAI, especially as the company navigates pivotal developments in AI.
While the allegations are unrelated to OpenAI’s operations, public perception of its leader could influence the company’s standing in an industry where trust and credibility are paramount.
Ann Altman’s Prior Allegations
This is not the first time Ann has voiced these allegations. She previously raised similar accusations against her brother on social media platforms like X. The family has consistently denied her claims, suggesting that they have evolved over time.
They insist they have sought professional advice to manage their relationship with Ann without enabling harmful behaviour.
As the legal process unfolds, both parties remain steadfast in their positions. Sam and his family have expressed pain over the situation, while Ann is seeking justice for the trauma she alleged she endured.
The lawsuit adds a complex layer to the life of one of the technology industry’s most influential figures. For now, all eyes are on the courtroom as the next chapter in this legal battle begins.