Kentucky bourbon executive dismissed after lawsuit alleging hidden cameras
Wes Henderson was removed as CEO of TKC Distilling's brands following a lawsuit accusing him of installing concealed recording devices at his residences and a resort; he denies the claims.
TKC Distilling, the parent company of The Kentucky Castle and True Story Whiskey, terminated Wes Henderson as chief executive on Oct. 3 after relatives filed a lawsuit alleging he placed hidden cameras at his homes and at the castle resort. The sealed complaint, filed in Oldham County, Kentucky, says family members discovered about 15 devices disguised as fire alarms, fans, clocks, speakers, charging blocks, outlet extenders and a bathroom vent during a June 2025 stay at Henderson’s vacation property in Florida. The suit also alleges cameras recorded guests changing, using bathrooms and engaging in sexual activity, including footage of minors. Additional cameras were reportedly found in the couple’s Oldham County residence and at The Kentucky Castle in Versailles, Kentucky, with the complaint identifying roughly 40 individuals captured without consent.
"Wes unequivocally denies the allegations in the lawsuit," his attorney said, adding that the complaint is expected to be voluntarily dismissed and that Henderson is prepared to defend himself if it proceeds.
The plaintiffs are seeking damages for pain, suffering and medical expenses and have requested a jury trial. TKC Distilling’s legal counsel, Charity Bird, said the company is not a party to the suit and that Henderson’s son, Kyle Henderson, will assume the CEO role. The board announced it will conduct an independent investigation into the allegations. Law enforcement agencies in Florida and Kentucky have not confirmed possession of the evidence, and the Department of Homeland Security is reportedly reviewing the recordings.
Separately, TKC Distilling and related entities face other lawsuits concerning unpaid architectural and consulting fees. Henderson, a former firefighter who also served as an Oldham County deputy coroner, could not be reached for comment.