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Westbrook Police Apologize for AI-Altered Drug Evidence Photo and Invite Journalists to Verify Original Evidence

Reviewers spotted gibberish text on drug packaging, prompting the department to withdraw its posts; it has now invited journalists to verify the original evidence

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Overview

  • An officer used a consumer photo-editing app to insert a department patch, unintentionally altering package labels, product text and scale branding in the seized-drugs image.
  • AI-literate Facebook users quickly identified errors such as missing items, indecipherable labels and inconsistent powder levels and raised concerns.
  • The department initially denied any AI involvement and defended the image’s authenticity before deleting both the original and follow-up posts.
  • On July 2 the police issued a formal apology and opened their evidence room so media can confirm that the unedited photo accurately reflects the seized fentanyl and methamphetamine.
  • Officials said the incident will inform new review protocols for AI tools in public-facing communications.