Cheryl Harris Gates, an occupational therapist employed by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, was arrested on suspicions that she laced her estranged husband’s energy drink with toxins and prescription pharmaceuticals with the intent of incapacitating or perhaps killing him.
Court filings show that between late 2024 and September 2025, Gates utilized ChatGPT to study hazardous drugs such as oleander, ricin, and foxglove, as well as deadly drug interactions. Investigators also found syringes, droppers, pharmaceuticals, a capsule filling kit, and scales in Gates’ home workspace.
Gates and her husband have separated, but the cause for the suspected murder plot has not been revealed. She is also accused of installing a tracking device on his vehicle.
According to Law & Crime, Gates’ arrest warrant stated that “the defendant unlawfully and willfully did on more than one occasion harass [Gates’ husband] by placing a tracking device on his vehicle.” The defendant knew and should have known that the harassment and course of behavior would make a reasonable person fear for their own or their immediate family’s safety.”
According to one Charlotte-Mecklenburg parent, “It’s definitely surprising that somebody in that capacity that is there to help others would do something, that type of crime, especially.”
Gates faces charges of attempted murder, stalking, and contaminating food or drink. The instances apparently occurred outside of school grounds and included no kids, instructors, or faculty members. Gates was arrested on October 10, 2025, and is now being held without bond. She has a court appearance scheduled for October 30, 2025.
