Authorities arrested Cheryl Harris Gates, an occupational therapist employed by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, on allegations that she spiked her estranged husband’s energy drink with toxins and prescription medications intended to incapacitate or possibly kill him.
Court documents reveal that between late 2024 and September 2025, Gates used ChatGPT to research toxic substances, including oleander, ricin, and foxglove, as well as dangerous drug interactions. Investigators also discovered syringes, droppers, medications, a capsule filling kit, and scales in Gates’ home workspace.
The tracking device allegations
Police say occupational therapist Cheryl Harris Gates faces charges including attempted murder, stalking, and contaminating food or drink in an ongoing case. https://t.co/8bO5XAUZEx
— News19 WLTX (@WLTX) October 11, 2025
Gates and her husband are separated, but a motive for the alleged murder plot has not so far been reported. She’s also accused of placing a tracking device on his vehicle.
According to Law & Crime, Gates’ arrest warrant alleged, “The defendant unlawfully and willfully did without legal purpose, 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, course of conduct would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety or the safety of the person’s immediate family.”
One Charlotte-Mecklenburg parent told the press, “It’s definitely surprising that somebody in that capacity that is there to help others would do something, that type of crime, especially.”
Gates is charged with attempted murder, stalking, and contaminating food or drink. The incidents reportedly occurred off school property and did not involve any students, teachers, or faculty members. Police arrested Gates on October 10, 2025, and she is currently in custody without bond. She has a scheduled court appearance on October 30, 2025.
