Former NFL player Darron Lee is facing serious criminal charges following the death of his ex-partner in Tennessee.
During a preliminary hearing this week, prosecutors alleged the former New York Jets linebacker searched for advice using an artificial intelligence chatbot shortly after the incident. Authorities claim Lee consulted the tool while trying to figure out what to do after Gabriella Carvalho Perpétuo was found dead inside a home in Ooltewah.
According to prosecutors, Lee allegedly wrote to the chatbot, “Don’t know what to do right now,” before describing a situation involving his fiancée and asking for guidance. Officials told the court that the messages were part of multiple conversations that took place over roughly two days.
District Attorney Coty Wamp told the court that Lee asked questions about how to explain injuries and what to say when contacting emergency services.
“He asks how to cover it up,” Wamp said. “He asks what to say to 911.”
Lee, 31, was arrested earlier this year and charged with first degree murder and tampering with evidence. A judge previously ruled that he will remain in custody without bond while the case proceeds.
Investigators reported finding signs of violence throughout the home where Perpétuo was discovered. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors determine how the case will move forward.