Kill. Bury. Print. Documentary Exposes Oklahoma Sheriff Scandal
Kill. Bury. Print. Documentary Exposes Oklahoma Sheriff's Department Scandal and Small-Town Newspaper's Fight
A new true-crime documentary is bringing national attention to one of Oklahoma's most disturbing law enforcement controversies. Kill. Bury. Print.documentary, which premiered on Peacock September 27, 2026, follows a family-owned newspaper in southeastern Oklahoma as its journalists investigate alleged corruption, confront intimidation and fight to expose threats against their lives.
The Kill. Bury. Print. documentary, directed by Ben Klein and produced by Rachel Maddow, centers on Bruce Willingham and his son Chris Willingham, whose reporting for the McCurtain County Gazette News placed them in conflict with the McCurtain County Sheriff's Department. The film examines the consequences of challenging powerful local officials and the personal sacrifices involved in protecting independent journalism.
Kill. Bury. Print. Documentary Revisits McCurtain County Corruption Allegations
Beginning in 2018, reporter Chris Willingham investigated allegations involving the McCurtain County Sheriff's Department, then led by Sheriff Kevin Clardy.
The newspaper published more than 40 articles examining accusations of misconduct, including inappropriate relationships, drug activity and violence involving department personnel.
According to reporting by KJRH, the family's investigation eventually became a national story after a secretly recorded conversation involving county officials surfaced in 2023.
The recording captured racist remarks and discussions about killing and burying newspaper reporters, triggering widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of local leadership.
Secret Recording Sparked National Outrage and Fear of Retaliation
The recording raised serious questions about public accountability, press freedom and the safety of journalists investigating government misconduct.
Despite the controversy, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond's office did not pursue criminal charges stemming from the recorded conversation.
The Willingham family continued facing concerns about retaliation and personal safety.
Chris Willingham and his wife Angie relocated to Tulsa, while Bruce remained in Idabel to continue operating the newspaper.
The documentary also examines how the controversy affected other McCurtain County residents, including individuals who reportedly feared speaking publicly about their experiences.
Rachel Maddow and Director Ben Klein Highlight Family's Courage
Director Ben Klein spent approximately three and a half years documenting the Willingham family's experiences and the broader impact of the controversy.
Speaking with ABC Audio, Klein explained that the family's determination inspired him to pursue the project.
Rachel Maddow, who helped produce the film, described being struck by the courage of a small-town newspaper willing to challenge local authorities.
The documentary also brings recognition to the Willinghams' commitment to journalism. Chris and Angie Willingham are being honored with the 2026 David Carr Award at the Montclair Film Festival.
Kill. Bury. Print. is now streaming on Peacock, offering viewers a closer look at the Oklahoma family's fight for accountability and the risks faced by journalists reporting on powerful institutions.
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