Georgia Sheriff's Office Pranks Public with Fake Plane Purchase

Candler County Sheriff's Office announces April Fools' aircraft acquisition, then admits it's a joke

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:20am

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The Candler County Sheriff's Office in Georgia posted an elaborate April Fools' Day prank on its Facebook page, announcing the acquisition of a surplus single-engine aircraft for aerial speed enforcement. The agency later revealed the post was a joke, clarifying that no one on staff is licensed to fly a plane and the department only operates drones for certain law enforcement purposes.

Why it matters

The sheriff's office's April Fools' stunt highlights the importance of verifying information on social media, as the post was designed to appear like an official press release and could have misled some readers. It also showcases the creative ways law enforcement agencies are using social media to engage with their local communities.

The details

The Candler County Sheriff's Office's Facebook post described deputies completing an online pilot course, the aircraft being equipped with 'advanced optics and communications equipment,' and ongoing logistics work around hangar space and fuel costs. However, the agency later admitted that 'no, we did not get a plane' and 'nobody here is licensed to fly anything bigger than a drone.'

  • The Candler County Sheriff's Office posted the prank on April 1, 2026 - April Fools' Day.
  • The post stated that if it reached 500 likes, Sheriff Miles would parachute into the Another Bloomin' Festival in Metter on Saturday.

The players

Candler County Sheriff's Office

A law enforcement agency in Candler County, Georgia that operates drones for search and rescue, crash scenes, and area surveillance.

Sheriff Miles

The sheriff of Candler County, Georgia who was the subject of the prank about parachuting into a local festival.

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What they’re saying

“No, we did not get a plane. And nobody here is licensed to fly anything bigger than a drone. Yet! April Fools.”

— Candler County Sheriff's Office

“Don't believe everything you read on social media.”

— Candler County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The Candler County Sheriff's Office has not indicated any further plans related to the April Fools' prank. The department will likely continue operating its drone program for law enforcement purposes.

The takeaway

This April Fools' prank by the Candler County Sheriff's Office serves as a reminder to the public to be cautious about information shared on social media, as even official-looking posts from government agencies can sometimes be intended as jokes or hoaxes. It also highlights the creative ways law enforcement is using social media to engage with their communities.