Charlotte, North Carolina, October 15, 2025
News Summary
A Charlotte occupational therapist, Cheryl Harris Gates, has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly contaminating her husband’s drink with lethal drugs. The investigation revealed that Gates researched toxic combinations prior to the incident. Additionally, she faces charges of stalking and property damage. Gates, who has worked for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools since 2011, has been suspended with pay. The case has raised significant concerns among parents regarding safety within the school district. She remains in custody with a court appearance scheduled for later this month.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Cheryl Harris Gates, a 43-year-old occupational therapist employed by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly contaminating her husband’s drink with prescription medications. The case has attracted significant public attention due to its serious nature and the professional background of the accused.
The charges against Gates include attempted murder, contaminating food or drink to render one mentally incapacitated or physically helpless, stalking, and damage to property. Investigators found that Gates allegedly used ChatGPT to research lethal drug combinations prior to the incident, leading to suspicions of premeditated actions against her husband.
Although police have not confirmed whether Gates’ husband consumed the tainted beverage or provided updates about his current condition, the investigation revealed troubling details about Gates’ conduct. It is alleged that Gates stalked her husband, damaged his property by breaking a window, and placed a tracking device on his vehicle.
Gates was initially arrested on October 7 for stalking and property damage, after which she was released. She was re-arrested on October 10 when the more severe charges of attempted murder and contaminating food or drink were leveled against her. Currently, she has been denied bond and remains in custody at the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
Gates’ next court appearance is scheduled for October 30. The alleged incident occurred off school property and did not involve any students, teachers, or faculty members from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
Following the serious allegations, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced that Gates has been suspended with pay. She has been employed with the school district since 2011. The news of her arrest has caused concern among parents regarding Gates’ potential continued presence in the school system.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the domestic violence unit. The seriousness of the charges against Gates has catalyzed a broader discussion about domestic violence and the impact of such issues within communities.
Background Information
Cheryl Harris Gates has worked for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for over a decade. Occupational therapists play a critical role in helping individuals achieve independence and improve their quality of life. Gates’ alleged actions have raised alarms not only about her professional life but also the well-being and safety of her personal life and relationships.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe environment for students and staff and is cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation.
FAQ Section
What charges has Cheryl Harris Gates faced?
Cheryl Harris Gates has been charged with attempted murder, contaminating food or drink to render one mentally incapacitated or physically helpless, stalking, and damage to property.
What evidence exists against Gates regarding her actions?
Investigations revealed that Gates allegedly used ChatGPT to research lethal drug combinations prior to attempting to poison her husband.
What is Gates’ current status?
Gates has been denied bond and is currently in the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
When is Gates’ next court appearance?
Gates’ next court appearance is scheduled for October 30.
Do the charges involve any students or faculty from the school?
No, the incident took place off school property and did not involve any students, teachers, or faculty members.
What has the school district done in response?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has suspended Gates with pay following the charges.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Attempted murder, toxic contamination |
| Accused | Cheryl Harris Gates |
| Occupation | Occupational Therapist at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools |
| Charges Filed | Attempted murder, stalking, property damage |
| Arrest Dates | October 7 (initial), October 10 (re-arrest) |
| Current Status | Denied bond, in custody |
| Next Court Appearance | October 30 |
| School District Response | Suspended with pay |
| Community Concern | Parental worries about safety |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Pediatric Occupational Therapist Charged with Attempted Murder
Charlotte School Employee Charged with Attempted Murder
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Employee Arrested on Serious Charges
Additional Resources
- CBS News
- WBTV
- WSOC TV
- Charlotte Observer
- WXII 12
- Wikipedia: Domestic Violence
- Google Search: Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
- Google Scholar: Occupational Therapy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Occupational Therapy
- Google News: Cheryl Harris Gates
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
