Former North Carolina Elections Official Indicted for Placing Pills in Teenagers’ Ice Cream
A former county elections official in North Carolina faces serious felony charges after allegedly putting pills into the ice cream cones of two teenage girls. This shocking incident exposes potential lapses in safety and raises alarm about the conduct of public figures.
Why It Matters
The case highlights concerns regarding the safety of minors, the role of public officials, and the potential repercussions for community trust in local governance. It also underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement in addressing harmful behaviors.
Key Developments
- James Edwin Yokeley Jr., 66, has been indicted on two counts of unlawful distribution of food or beverage and one count of intentional child abuse causing serious physical injury.
- The alleged incident took place in August 2025, involving his 16-year-old step-granddaughter and her 15-year-old friend.
- Preliminary tests indicated that the pills contained the substances MDMA and cocaine, although the teens did not consume them.
- Surveillance footage reportedly confirmed that Yokeley placed the pills into the desserts.
- Initial charges of food contamination and felony child abuse were dismissed after lab tests found that the substances were not classified as illegal narcotics; the case was later presented to a grand jury.
- At the time of his arrest, Yokeley served as the chair of the Surry County Board of Elections but resigned shortly thereafter, citing the need to protect the integrity of the board amidst the allegations.
Full Report
The Charges
A grand jury in New Hanover County has now formally charged Yokeley following the findings of both police investigations and surveillance evidence. The court records reveal that he is facing serious allegations that could lead to substantial penalties.
Incident Details
According to the Wilmington Police Department, the incident unfolded when Yokeley is accused of slipping pills into the ice cream cones of the two girls during an outing. The teenagers subsequently discovered the pills and notified authorities, prompting an immediate investigation.
Surveillance Evidence
Investigators utilized surveillance footage from the location, which reportedly caught Yokeley in the act of adding the pills to the ice cream. This crucial evidence played a significant role in solidifying the case against him.
Initial Legal Proceedings
Yokeley was initially charged with multiple offenses, including contaminating food with a controlled substance and drug possession. However, those charges were dismissed after laboratory testing determined the substances did not meet the criteria for illegal narcotics under North Carolina law.
Resignation
Following the public revelation of the allegations, Yokeley chose to resign from his position as chair of the Surry County Board of Elections. In a letter announcing his departure, he mentioned the need to uphold the integrity of the electoral board amid the ongoing legal proceedings.
Context & Previous Events
The initial alarming circumstances of the case unfolded in August 2025, when the two teenage girls were confronted with the unexpected discovery in their desserts. Yokeley’s subsequent resignation from public office raises questions about the accountability of individuals in positions of authority and the implications for community trust moving forward.
As the legal process continues, the situation remains a striking example of the complexities surrounding public figures and personal conduct.
