German authorities investigate teens for using humanoid robot to harass women

German police in Cologne have launched an investigation into two teenagers, aged 16 and 19, following allegations that they used a humanoid robot to sexually harass and grope a 16-year-old girl in public. The robot, which stands four feet tall and was dressed in clothing, was confiscated by authorities after reports emerged that the teens were steering it through busy streets to intentionally bump into women. The incident, which appears to have been filmed for a livestream, has raised significant legal questions regarding the misuse of robotics in public spaces. Investigators are currently determining whether the robot's actions were pre-programmed or controlled in real-time by the suspects. While no formal charges have been filed, the case highlights growing concerns over the intersection of new technology, social media clout-chasing, and public safety, as authorities note this is an unprecedented case of humanoid robots being utilized for harassment.