Ex-Jets Linebacker Charged with Murder, Allegedly Used ChatGPT to Cover Up Crime

Darron Lee accused of stabbing ex-partner to death and consulting AI chatbot for advice on concealing the crime

Mar. 10, 2026 at 9:30pm

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Darron Lee, a former first-round draft pick for the New York Jets, has been charged with first-degree murder for the alleged stabbing death of his ex-partner, Gabriella Carvalho Perpétuo. Prosecutors claim Lee consulted the AI chatbot ChatGPT for advice on how to 'cover up' the murder, including asking if a 'slip-and-fall' could cause the victim's injuries.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns around the potential misuse of AI technology, as Lee is accused of using ChatGPT as a 'legal advisor' to try and conceal his alleged crime. It also raises questions about the accountability of tech companies when their AI systems are used for nefarious purposes.

The details

According to prosecutors, Lee allegedly sent multiple messages to ChatGPT detailing the murder and asking for advice on how to cover it up. The chatbot reportedly provided suggestions on how to handle the situation 'without framing it as police trouble.' Authorities found extensive evidence of violence in the home, including blood spatter, a stab wound, and signs of blunt force trauma to the victim's body.

  • Lee was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence last month.
  • A preliminary hearing was held on Monday, March 10, 2026, where prosecutors revealed Lee's alleged use of ChatGPT.

The players

Darron Lee

A former first-round draft pick for the New York Jets, who is now charged with first-degree murder for the alleged stabbing death of his ex-partner.

Gabriella Carvalho Perpétuo

Lee's ex-partner, who was found dead in a home in Ooltewah, Tennessee, with multiple injuries including a stab wound and signs of blunt force trauma.

Coty Wamp

The district attorney who is prosecuting the case and revealed Lee's alleged use of ChatGPT to try and cover up the murder.

Brian Lockhart

A Hamilton County Sheriff's Office detective who detailed the extensive evidence of violence found at the crime scene.

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What they’re saying

“He asks how to cover it up. He asks what to say to 911.”

— Coty Wamp, District Attorney (WDEF)

“Mr. Lee was in a home with a female (who) was, for lack of a better term, beaten to death. And the explanation that he gave doesn't make any sense whatsoever.”

— Coty Wamp, District Attorney (WCTV)

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow Lee to be released on bail, and prosecutors are still weighing whether to pursue the death penalty in this case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing concerns around the potential misuse of AI technology, as well as the need for stricter accountability measures for tech companies when their systems are used for criminal purposes. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and the careful consideration of all evidence in high-profile murder cases.