Charlotte, NC, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Cheryl Harris Gates, a pediatric occupational therapist in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, has been arrested on multiple charges including attempted murder and stalking. Allegations suggest she spiked her husband’s drink with medication to incapacitate him and placed a tracking device on his vehicle. The incidents occurred off school property and did not involve any students or staff. Gates, who has been suspended with pay, is currently being held in jail as the investigation continues.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Cheryl Harris Gates, a 43-year-old pediatric occupational therapist employed by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), was arrested on Friday by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). Gates faces serious charges including attempted murder, stalking, damage to property, and contaminating food or drink to render one mentally incapacitated or physically helpless.
The CMPD’s domestic violence unit initiated an investigation into Gates after she was accused of attempting to murder her husband by spiking his Celsius energy drink with prescription medications. It is believed she intended to cause him to black out or become incapacitated. Additionally, Gates is alleged to have placed a tracking device on her husband’s vehicle and damaged his window.
Importantly, the incidents involving Gates occurred off school property and did not involve any students, teachers, or faculty members. Public records suggest that Gates has been separated from her husband for some time. She has been employed with CMS since 2011.
At the time of this report, Gates was being held in the Mecklenburg County Jail. In response to her arrest, CMS has decided to suspend her with pay, pending further developments in the case. The investigation into the incidents remains ongoing, and police have urged anyone with additional information to contact Detective Bumgarner at CMPD. Concerns have been expressed by parents regarding Gates’ presence in the school system, even if she is acquitted of the charges.
Furthermore, CMPD is actively seeking more information related to the case and encourages people to submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Key Details of the Case:
- Arrestee: Cheryl Harris Gates, 43
- Charges: Attempted murder, stalking, damage to property, contaminating food or drink
- Occupation: Pediatric occupational therapist at CMS since 2011
- Incident Details: Accusations of spiking husband’s drink with medications, placing tracking device on his vehicle, damaging his window
- Location of Incidents: Off school property, not involving students, teachers, or faculty
- Current Status: Held in Mecklenburg County Jail, suspended from CMS with pay
- Investigation: Ongoing; CMPD seeking additional information
Background Context
The investigation against Gates was instigated by serious accusations that have drawn considerable concern from both the police and the public. With a career in pediatric therapy, her role within the education system has now been overshadowed by these alarming allegations. CMS is engaging with the situation carefully, ensuring the safety of students and staff while following legal protocols in managing employees facing serious charges.
FAQ Section
Who is Cheryl Harris Gates?
Cheryl Harris Gates is a 43-year-old pediatric occupational therapist employed by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS).
What charges has she faced?
Gates has been charged with attempted murder, stalking, damage to property, and contaminating food or drink to render one mentally incapacitated or physically helpless.
What are the allegations against Gates?
Gates is accused of attempting to murder her husband by spiking his Celsius energy drink with prescription medications and placing a tracking device on his vehicle while damaging his window.
Did the incidents occur on school property?
No, the incidents involving Gates occurred off school property and did not involve any students, teachers, or faculty members.
What is her employment status with CMS?
Gates has been suspended with pay by CMS pending further developments in the case.
What actions did CMPD take regarding the investigation?
CMPD’s domestic violence unit initiated the investigation, and police have urged anyone with additional information to contact them.
What can concerned parents do?
Parents have voiced their concerns about Gates’ presence in the school system, and CMPD encourages people to submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee | Cheryl Harris Gates, 43 |
| Charges | Attempted murder, stalking, damage to property, contaminating food or drink |
| Employment | Occupational therapist at CMS since 2011 |
| Incident location | Off school property |
| Status | Held in Mecklenburg County Jail, suspended with pay from CMS |
| Investigation | Ongoing by CMPD |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte School Employee Charged with Attempted Murder
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Employee Arrested on Serious Charges
Additional Resources
- WSOC-TV
- Wikipedia: Occupational therapy
- WXII 12
- Google Search: Cheryl Harris Gates
- Charlotte Observer
- Google Scholar: Domestic violence case
- WBTV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- QC News
- Google News: CMS employee arrested
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.
