AI-Generated Monkey Hoax Triggers Newark Police Search

Newark police and animal control responded to reports of wild monkeys at the Georgia King Village high-rise after a social media photo (reported around 10:35–10:36 a.m.) prompted multiple 311 and emergency calls. Officers conducted thorough searches but found no animals—loose or caged—and have preliminarily determined the photos and videos circulating online were likely AI-generated hoaxes. A similar false report was investigated at the same complex the previous day, and officials noted a recent Yonkers incident involving AI-generated images of an intruder. Investigators are searching for whoever posted the images, and under New Jersey law creating a false public alarm can be a crime. Residents and public-safety officials warned that misusing AI wastes police resources and urged people to verify digital content before sharing. The matter remains under investigation.