Arrest of Gobini Founder for Soliciting Sexual Contact
The founder and executive chairman of Gobini, a software firm closely associated with the Pentagon, has been taken into custody on charges related to attempting to solicit sexual contact with a minor, as reported by the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Eric Gillespie, 57, from Pittsburgh, allegedly sought to arrange a meeting with a teenage girl through an online platform used frequently by sex offenders. An undercover officer impersonating an adult reportedly intercepted Gillespie’s communications.
“Our Child Predators Section acted decisively against this defendant who was prowling online to reach out to children using a fake identity,” stated Attorney General Dave. “During the investigation, Gillespie suggested methods of contacting minors, among other evidence that linked him to interactions with children,” added the office in a released statement.
Gillespie has been denied bail due to concerns about flight risk and public safety. He is facing four felony charges, including several counts of unlawful contact with a minor.
A spokesperson for Gobini commented on the serious nature of the allegations, stating, “On November 10, 2025, we were alerted to the felony charges against Mr. Gillespie. Upon notification, we promptly placed him on administrative leave. We are fully committed to cooperating with law enforcement in this investigation. Our company adheres to high ethical standards, and we unequivocally stand against all forms of abuse.”
Govini specializes in artificial intelligence software designed for the Department of Defense and various other agencies to analyze extensive government and commercial data, covering aspects like defense budgets and supply chains.
The firm has recently secured notable federal contracts, including a $400 million deal with the Department of Defense in 2019 and a new ten-year contract worth $919 million announced in April 2025, aimed at developing a supply chain risk platform.
Earlier this month, Govini reported surpassing $100 million in annual recurring revenue and obtaining $150 million in investment for growth, according to a company news release.
“I launched Govini to innovate how the U.S. government utilizes AI and data for decision-making,” Gillespie claimed in a release, emphasizing the company’s commitment to the military and its analytical capabilities.
