Wood County Health Department Clarifies Misinformation Regarding YouTube Videos

Thursday, June 16th, 2022 -- 11:01 AM

The Wood County Health Department would like to clarify some misinformation regarding two YouTube videos that are widely circulating.

A confrontational group, claiming to be from South Dakota and administering a “first amendment audit”, came to the Wood County Health Department. The makers of the videos claim that they contain footage of Sue Smith, Director of the Wood County Health Department.

Sue Smith is not present in any part of the videos, nor did any other Health Dept. employees confront the videographers. In addition, the recordings did not occur inside the Wood County Health Department with the exception of a few seconds toward the end when the videographers asked the Health Department receptionist where the stairs were.

Sue Smith and the Health Department have been receiving many harassing, derogatory, and threatening emails and phone calls. Because of this, we felt it important to clarify that the Health Department and Sue Smith are not involved in this video as the makers claim. We would like to add that we support the Wood County employees who were involved in this incident last Friday.

We live in a dangerous world where random workplace violence is not uncommon. When unidentified persons entered their office carrying equipment, including a large camera pointed at them, their intent was unknown.

While there is public access to reception and waiting areas, public access does not include private offices, or patient waiting and treatment rooms. When confronted with these unknowns, the staff took the appropriate actions to protect the privacy and safety of their clients and coworkers by calling the local authorities.

We are grateful they were there to work through the situation. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to Lance Pliml, County Board Chair, at 715-421-8401.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.