Not Real?
In 2012, an anonymous source revealed that: “There are invoices, checks, and other documentation where the production company actually compensated cast members for supplying items that got planted in lockers and then discovered on camera.” This source also alleged that in between takes, more valuable items were planted in lockers to create more dramatic moments for the show.
Wrongful Termination
Dave Hester claimed that he was wrongfully terminated and that the show was fake in a 2012 lawsuit. He also alleged that he suffered a breach of contract and suffered from unfair business practices. He believed that A&E was annoyed with his discomfort at the alleged faked storylines. The judge said that these claims were too generic, leading Hester to file again in 2014. He ended up getting an undisclosed amount of money and also joined the show once again.