In a case highlighting the intricate intersection of cybercrime and mental health, Arion Kurtaj, the 18-year-old hacker behind the infamous Grand Theft Auto VI leak, has been sentenced to indefinite sentence in a secure hospital. This verdict stems not only from the colossal impact of Kurtaj’s actions but also from his own mental troubles that cause him to lash out.
While Kurtaj, operating under the online alias “White,” played a pivotal role in leaking 90 videos of GTA VI gameplay last year, a London jury acknowledged his autism and determined his acts without assigning criminal intent (Thanks, The Verge). The focus, therefore, shifted to assessing Kurtaj’s future threat to public safety. The court heard disturbing reports of Kurtaj’s violent behavior while in custody, this is also in addition to his promises to continue his crimes.
He was under a 12-week hospital order citing mental illness during this time. Psychiatrist Dr Claudia Camden-Smith revealed during this hearing that Kurtaj had stated during an assessment that he intended to return to his life of crime after release.
This stark reality left the judge with a chilling choice: prioritize public safety or offer leniency due to Kurtaj’s mental state. Ultimately, the scales tipped toward the former. Kurtaj’s indefinite sentence ensures he remains confined until deemed no longer a danger, a decision justified by the significant harm he caused.
The 17-year-old accomplice to Kurtaj received a dramatically lighter sentence, highlighting the discrepancies in legal outcomes within the same case. It shows how much different things could have been for Kurtaj had he not shown the court how violent he really was.
This is a chilling end to what has been a roller coaster ride of news. Speaking as a former Correctional Officer who oversaw inmates who were violent due to mental issues, they can be very dangerous to others as well as themselves. Kurtaj has admitted to wanting to commit more crimes and has done a lot of damage.
“[He] had been violent while in custody with dozens of reports of injury or property damage… [Kurtaj] continued to express the intent to return to cybercrime as soon as possible.”
Thursday’s Court Hearing
We wish the best for everyone involved and hope that the crimes committed aren’t repeated.
