The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is responding to what it calls a “false and misleading” video circulating on social media that falsely depicts detainees at the W.C. ‘Dub’ Brassell Adult Detention Center (DBDC) cooking chicken in a toilet.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the video — shared by social media user Robert Fells — did not originate from the detention center and was generated using artificial intelligence. Officials said the clip includes numerous inaccuracies that clearly prove it is fake.
Among the inconsistencies cited, the agency noted that detainees at DBDC wear orange one-piece jumpsuits, not the tan or brown uniforms shown in the video. Additionally, the facility’s toilets are stainless steel fixtures without heating elements, making it impossible to use them for cooking.
The video’s audio also references a “Captain Adams,” though the Sheriff’s Office clarified that the individual who once held that title retired in February 2024 and is no longer employed with the agency.
“All housing units are monitored, contraband screening is routine, and such activity would be immediately detected and addressed,” the Sheriff’s Office stated.
Assistant Administrator Major Jeremy Bennett warned the public about the dangers of fabricated digital content, saying it’s “dangerous and irresponsible when people use AI to fabricate realistic-looking videos just to chase likes, shares, and monetization.”
“These hoaxes mislead the public, smear public servants, and can incite unnecessary tension,” Bennett said. “We are asking community members to pause, verify, and think critically before engaging with or amplifying this kind of content.”
The Sheriff’s Office has documented the post, preserved relevant metadata, and notified platform integrity teams. Officials said the agency will pursue all legal and platform-based remedies available when false or manipulated content threatens public trust or facility security.
The department also urged citizens to avoid sharing or engaging with misinformation, to report false posts through social media platforms’ reporting tools, and to verify information directly with the Sheriff’s Office before spreading unconfirmed content.
Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. emphasized the seriousness of AI-driven misinformation, saying, “AI is powerful, and in the wrong hands, it is often used with ill intent. Our duty is to protect the public and operate our jail safely and transparently. We will not allow false narratives to undermine that mission. If you see sensational content about DBDC, verify the source and check with us before you share.”
The Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to maintaining public trust and transparency while protecting both staff and detainees from the harmful effects of online misinformation.
