Former Volleyball Coach Accused of Grooming Teen Girl Using AI
A former volleyball coach has faced allegations of attempting to engage in a sexual relationship with a teenage girl, reportedly employing artificial intelligence in the planning. Texas State Police disclosed this information.
Massan Ruff, 32, was taken into custody on Wednesday by Mesquite police, charged with child grooming, classified as a third-degree felony.
The 17-year-old girl informed authorities that Ruff had attempted to convince her to engage in sexual activities, which included multiple encounters at the church where his father served as the senior pastor.
The girl and her mother reported the situation to police on October 2nd after her mother became aware of the alleged relationship.
As the investigation unfolded, police discovered a “hypothetical counter-influence plan” on Ruff’s iPad. This plan, devised by the AI, contained headings like “Rebuild her autonomy” and “Change power dynamics.”
Ruff had reportedly been grooming the girl since spring 2023, initiating contact at her cousin’s graduation party. He was recognized as the spouse of a worship group leader and suggested that she join a volleyball team he was forming at church.
Come fall 2024, he conducted tryouts for the team, secured her a position, and began sending her messages regarding marriage.
The communications allegedly grew increasingly flirtatious and inappropriate, ultimately escalating to explicit exchanges. Ruff also sent disturbing messages about a potential murder, stated he possessed a firearm, and seemingly coerced her into maintaining the relationship.
The girl felt pressured to send explicit images due to fear. She recounted that at a church event in September, Ruff kissed her and later that month, he allegedly assaulted her on two separate occasions.
The relationship concluded when the girl’s mother discovered the messages and contacted Ruff’s wife, who subsequently filed for divorce in October and moved out of state. Following the incident, Ruff’s father resigned from his position as senior pastor at Mesquite Christian Center.
Ruff was granted bail set at $10,000 and has since been released.
