Kentucky Bourbon Executive Wes Henderson Fired Amid Hidden Camera Allegations
Family members accused Henderson of using hidden cameras to record relatives and guests at his homes and a castle resort.
Wes Henderson, formerly the CEO of TKC Distilling, the parent company of The Kentucky Castle and True Story Whiskey, was terminated on October 3 following allegations of hidden cameras recording individuals without their consent. Relatives filed a lawsuit against Henderson in June, accusing him of using concealed cameras to record family members and guests at his properties, according to reports.
Lawsuit documents claim that about 15 cameras were discovered during a stay at Henderson's vacation home in Florida. These devices were reportedly disguised as fire alarms and found hidden within everyday objects like fans, clocks, speakers, charging blocks, and outlet extenders. The complaint also alleges that footage showed Henderson positioning a camera in front of a bed and captured guests undressing and using bathrooms unknowingly. Some recordings purportedly showed Henderson engaged in sexual acts with other women, and others allegedly recorded minors while nude.
Following the discovery, family members turned over evidence to authorities. The lawsuit also states that Henderson's wife granted permission to search their Oldham County home, where additional hidden cameras were found. Footage from memory cards allegedly extended to The Kentucky Castle, a resort owned by Henderson in Versailles, Kentucky.
The complaint identified approximately 40 individuals who appeared in the recordings without their knowledge, including instances of an alleged homeless person entering a restroom. The plaintiffs are seeking damages for pain and suffering, as well as medical expenses, and have requested a jury trial.
Henderson's attorney released a statement denying the allegations, indicating an expectation that the complaint would be voluntarily dismissed. The attorney added that Henderson was prepared to vigorously defend himself if the case proceeded.
TKC Distilling stated that the company's board plans to conduct a full and independent investigation into the allegations. Henderson's son, Kyle Henderson, is set to take over as CEO of The Kentucky Castle and True Story Whiskey.
The Department of Homeland Security is reportedly examining the hidden recordings. Local authorities, including the Versailles Police Department, stated they were not involved in the investigation. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office in Florida and the Oldham County Police Department in Kentucky did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding evidence possession.
Separately, TKC Distilling and associated businesses have faced lawsuits related to allegedly unpaid bills. Henderson, a former firefighter, had also recently taken a leave of absence from his role as Oldham County deputy coroner.