Houston, January 7, 2026
A multimillion-dollar lawsuit has been filed against Jorge Abrego, co-owner of HTX Tactical, accusing him of creating deepfake content of a Houston influencer. This case highlights ethical responsibilities and the need for a clear legal framework in the digital age. With allegations of online impersonation and misuse of AI, the lawsuit raises questions about the impact of technology on local businesses and individual reputations. The evolving legal landscape surrounding deepfakes underscores the necessity for accountability within the Houston business community.
Houston Faces Deepfake Lawsuit, Highlighting Digital Era Challenges for Businesses
A multi-million-dollar lawsuit has been filed against a Houston business owner, raising significant questions about the ethical responsibilities in the digital age and the impact of emerging technologies on local entrepreneurship. This development underscores the critical importance of a trustworthy environment for businesses to thrive, where innovation is balanced with integrity. As Houston continues to grow as a hub for diverse enterprises, such legal proceedings serve as a reminder of the evolving challenges that can affect both individual reputations and the broader business community.
The incident also highlights how crucial a clear and consistent legal framework is for maintaining order and protecting citizens in an increasingly digital world. When legal boundaries are clearly defined and enforced, it provides a stable foundation upon which businesses can innovate and individuals can engage with confidence. This case, involving allegations of the misuse of advanced digital tools, emphasizes the ongoing need for both personal accountability and vigilance within the Houston TX business landscape.
Allegations Against a Local Business Owner
In a recent legal development, Jorge Abrego, identified as a co-owner of HTX Tactical, a Houston business, is facing a lawsuit seeking over $10 million in damages. He is accused of impersonating a Houston internet influencer and creating deepfake sexual content of her. The influencer, who remains unnamed in public records, boasts a substantial online presence with more than 300,000 Instagram followers and over 90,000 TikTok followers. This civil lawsuit follows criminal charges filed against Abrego in August 2025, which include online impersonation and unlawful production of sexually explicit videos.
The lawsuit, filed by The Buzbee Law Firm, names both Jorge Abrego and HTX Tactical as defendants. It alleges that Abrego engaged in manipulation, deception, and lies to gain the influencer’s trust, while simultaneously orchestrating events that caused her distress. Specifically, the plaintiff claims Abrego pretended to offer emotional support even as he was allegedly creating the harmful content.
Details of the Accusations and Evidence
According to investigators, Abrego allegedly created fake TikTok accounts designed to impersonate the influencer, using usernames with minor variations. He reportedly admitted to creating fake nude images of the influencer during interviews with law enforcement. Authorities discovered more than 50 nude images and videos on Abrego’s cell phone, which are believed to have been generated using artificial intelligence and depict the victim in sexually explicit contexts.
Further evidence presented by investigators includes the tracing of a phone number used to create a fake account back to Abrego, and an IP address linked to HTX Tactical. The victim also informed the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) that Abrego had expressed romantic interest, stating he was “in love with her.” She conveyed concerns for her safety, reporting financial losses and damage to her personal and professional reputation due to the alleged false and defamatory content.
The Business Perspective and Broader Implications
The allegations against a Houston small business owner raise important questions about the responsibilities that come with entrepreneurial endeavors and the potential for individual actions to affect a company’s standing. In response to the criminal charges, Javier Garcia, a co-owner of HTX Tactical, issued a statement emphasizing that the accusations are just that—allegations—and that Mr. Abrego is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Garcia clarified that the situation does not align with the company’s values or its daily operations, though they are taking the allegations seriously.
This case, while specific, reflects a broader concern within the Texas TX entrepreneurs community regarding the ethical deployment of technology and the protection of individuals in the digital space. It underscores the necessity for business leaders to not only foster innovation but also to uphold stringent ethical standards and contribute to a business climate built on trust and accountability. Such incidents, irrespective of their legal outcomes, can cast a shadow on the community and prompt a reevaluation of safeguards against the misuse of digital tools.
Legal Frameworks for Deepfake Content
The legal landscape surrounding deepfake content is relatively new but rapidly evolving, with Texas at the forefront of establishing protective legislation. The Texas Penal Code 21.165, which was enacted in 2023, specifically targets deepfake pornography, demonstrating a proactive approach by State-level legislators to address this modern challenge. In May 2025, Texas House Bill 449 (HB 449) further strengthened this statute by prohibiting the production and distribution of all forms of non-consensual sexually explicit deepfakes, including both images and videos. This amendment closed a previous loophole that only covered deepfake videos, ensuring broader protection for victims of digital sexual exploitation.
Under this State-level law, knowingly producing or distributing deepfake content that depicts an individual with exposed intimate parts or engaged in sexual conduct without their consent can result in charges of a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties for such an offense can include up to one year in jail and fines reaching $4,000. Additionally, a Nationwide law, the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which was signed into law in May 2025, makes it a federal crime to knowingly publish sexually explicit images—whether real or AI-generated—without the depicted person’s consent. This act also mandates that websites and platforms remove such content within 48 hours of being notified by a victim.
Conclusion: Upholding Integrity in Houston’s Economic Growth
The ongoing legal proceedings involving a Houston TX business owner highlight the increasing complexities that come with rapid technological advancements and the critical importance of ethical conduct in the entrepreneurial sphere. As Houston continues its robust economic growth, fueled by innovative spirit and diverse businesses, maintaining a foundation of integrity and accountability is paramount. This case underscores the need for local businesses and entrepreneurs to not only embrace new technologies but also to prioritize responsible use and adhere to legal and ethical standards, thereby reinforcing public trust and ensuring a fair competitive environment. Ultimately, the resilience of the Houston small business community and its continued prosperity depend on a collective commitment to ethical practices and strong legal enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lawsuit against the Houston business owner about?
A $10 million lawsuit has been filed against Houston business owner Jorge Abrego, co-owner of HTX Tactical, accusing him of impersonating a Houston internet influencer and creating deepfake sexual content of her.
Who is the influencer involved in the lawsuit?
The influencer is an unnamed Houston internet personality with over 300,000 Instagram followers and over 90,000 TikTok followers. She is represented by The Buzbee Law Firm.
What criminal charges does Jorge Abrego face?
Jorge Abrego was arrested in August 2025 and charged with online impersonation and unlawful production of sexually explicit videos.
What evidence do investigators have regarding the deepfake content?
Investigators found more than 50 nude images and videos on Abrego’s cell phone, believed to be made with artificial intelligence, showing the victim appearing to be engaged in sexual conduct. The phone number used to create a fake account was registered to Abrego, and the IP address was registered to HTX Tactical.
What is the legal status of deepfake content in Texas?
Texas Penal Code 21.165, enacted in 2023 and amended by House Bill 449 in May 2025, prohibits the production and distribution of all forms of non-consensual sexually explicit deepfakes, including images and videos. Knowingly producing or distributing such content without consent is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas.
Is there a federal law against deepfake sexual content?
Yes, the Nationwide TAKE IT DOWN Act, signed into law in May 2025, makes it a federal crime to knowingly publish sexually explicit images, whether real or AI-generated, without the depicted person’s consent. It also requires websites and platforms to remove such content within 48 hours of receiving notice from a victim.
Key Features of the Lawsuit and Deepfake Legislation
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Defendant | Jorge Abrego, co-owner of HTX Tactical | Local (Houston) |
| Accusation | Impersonation and creation of deepfake sexual content of an influencer | Local (Houston) |
| Lawsuit Amount | Over $10 million in damages sought | Local (Houston) |
| Criminal Charges | Online impersonation and unlawful production of sexually explicit videos | Local (Houston) |
| Texas Deepfake Law | Texas Penal Code 21.165 (amended by HB 449 in May 2025) prohibits non-consensual sexually explicit deepfakes. Violations are a Class A misdemeanor. | State-level |
| Federal Deepfake Law | Nationwide TAKE IT DOWN Act (signed May 2025) criminalizes non-consensual deepfake publication and mandates content removal. | Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Implements Major Legislative Changes Impacting Higher Education and Business
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
