GOP Official Accused of Drugging Granddaughters' Dairy Queen Treats
Imagine a trusted public official — someone who holds a position of responsibility in your community-suddenly becoming the center of a chilling family betrayal. That's exactly the shocking story unfolding in North Carolina, where James Edwin Yokeley Jr., a 66-year-old Republican election official, now faces serious felony charges after allegedly lacing his two granddaughters' Dairy Queen Blizzards with cocaine and MDMA. The allegations have stunned the community and raised unsettling questions about trust, family, and the dark twists that can lurk behind closed doors.
A Trusted Role Shattered by Allegations
James Yokeley Jr. was no ordinary citizen. He served as the chair of the Surry County Board of Elections, a role that demands integrity and public trust. Appointed in June 2025 by State Auditor Dave Boliek, Yokeley was expected to uphold the democratic process in his county. Yet, in a bizarre and disturbing turn of events, he was arrested in August 2025 after police uncovered evidence that he had secretly slipped drugs into his granddaughters' ice cream during a supervised visit in early August 2025.
The incident came to light when one of the girls, aged 15, reported feeling dizzy and exhibiting unusual behavior. The other granddaughter, 16, also found "hard objects" in her Blizzard, according to the New York Post, prompting immediate concern. Yokeley himself flagged down police officers at a gas station on August 8, 2025, reporting the discovery of these suspicious items in the girls' treats.
Surveillance and Toxicology: The Evidence Mounts
What makes this case particularly unsettling is the role of surveillance footage and toxicology tests in unraveling the truth. Police reviewed security camera footage from the Dairy Queen on Oleander Drive in Wilmington, which allegedly showed Yokeley placing the pills into the Blizzards himself. This visual evidence directly contradicted any innocent explanation and placed him at the heart of the crime.
The pills were tested and confirmed to contain cocaine and MDMA, powerful and illegal substances that pose serious health risks, especially to minors. Fortunately, neither of the girls ingested the drugs, but the potential harm was significant. The pills were sent to a state lab for further conclusive testing, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
From Grandparent to Criminal Suspect
The transformation of Yokeley's public image — from a respected election official to a criminal suspect accused of child abuse — is jarring. The charges against him include felony child abuse, possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of contaminating food or drink with a controlled substance. These are serious allegations that carry heavy legal consequences.
Yokeley was arrested on August 26, 2025, and booked into the New Hanover County Detention Center. He posted a $100,000 secured bond the same day but has not yet entered a plea. His attorney has remained silent on the matter, and Yokeley himself has maintained his innocence, claiming he was falsely accused and expressing confidence that he will be exonerated.
Resignation and Fallout
In the wake of the allegations, Yokeley resigned from his position as chair of the Surry County Board of Elections. His resignation came just as the state Board of Elections was preparing to hold an emergency meeting to address the situation. State Auditor Dave Boliek, who had appointed Yokeley, publicly called for his resignation or removal, emphasizing the need for the board to move forward without distraction.
In his resignation letter, Yokeley described the accusations as "falsely accused circumstances," as reported by PEOPLE, and said stepping down was in the best interest of the board. He also expressed pride in the work accomplished during his tenure and reiterated his commitment to a smooth transition.
A Troubling Backstory
Yokeley's political background adds another layer of complexity to the story. Before his appointment, he ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the Surry County Board of Education in 2022, focusing his campaign on national COVID policies and conspiracy theories about the 2020 federal elections. He also expressed anti-vaccine views on social media, claiming without evidence that COVID vaccines caused more adverse effects than all previous vaccines combined.
This history of controversial stances may have influenced public perception and added to the shock of the recent allegations. It paints a picture of a man whose public and private lives are now under intense scrutiny.
The Emotional Impact and Broader Implications
This story might evoke a mix of disbelief, concern, and curiosity. How could someone entrusted with public duties and family responsibilities cross such a line? The case highlights the fragile nature of trust and the devastating impact when it is broken, especially within families.
It also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and awareness. The quick action of the granddaughters in reporting the suspicious pills, the police's thorough investigation, and the role of surveillance technology all played crucial roles in preventing potential harm and bringing the truth to light.
For now, the story of James Yokeley Jr. stands as a chilling example of how appearances can deceive and how even those in positions of power can fall from grace in the most unexpected ways.
References: Election Official Accused of Slipping Drugs into Granddaughters' Dairy Queen Blizzards | GOP election official accused of spiking granddaughters' Dairy Queen with cocaine, MDMA | GOP Official James Yokeley Jr. Accused of Drugging Granddaughters' Dairy Queen
