School Therapist Allegedly Used ChatGPT to Research Lethal Poisons
In Charlotte, North Carolina, a startling case has emerged involving Cheryl Harris Gates, a 43-year-old occupational therapist employed by the local school district. On October 10, 2025, Gates was arrested on multiple charges, including attempted murder, stalking, and contaminating food or drink, after authorities allege she spiked her husband's energy drink with prescription medications.
A Chilling Allegation
The charges stem from an incident where Gates allegedly laced her husband's Celsius energy drink with drugs intended to cause blackout or incapacitation. According to an arrest warrant obtained by PEOPLE, the medications were introduced with the intent to render her husband physically helpless. The victim experienced two episodes of incapacitation after consuming the tainted beverage, on July 12 and August 18, as documented in the affidavit, as reported by the New York Post.
Digital Footprints and Evidence
What makes this case particularly unsettling is the role of technology in the alleged crime. Investigators uncovered that Gates allegedly used ChatGPT between July 8 and Sept. 29 to research "lethal and incapacitating prescription drug combinations" as well as the effects of poisons like oleander, ricin, and foxglove, as reported by PEOPLE. This digital trail was a key piece of evidence in the investigation.
At her home, authorities found syringes, a capsule filling kit, medical droppers, scales, and various medications in her workspace, all seized as evidence, as reported by the New York Post. These items suggest a calculated and methodical approach to the alleged poisoning.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Gates faces serious charges: attempted murder in the first-degree, contaminating food or drink with intent to cause harm, stalking, and damage to property. The stalking and property damage charges relate to an incident where she allegedly placed a tracking device on her husband's vehicle and caused damage to a window on his property, as reported by the New York Post.
Initially arrested on October 7 for stalking and property damage, Gates was released but taken back into custody on October 10 when the attempted murder and contamination charges were filed. She was reportedly denied bond following the second arrest and remains in custody, with her next court date scheduled for October 30.
Community Reaction and Employment Status
The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Charlotte community, especially among parents and school officials. Gates was employed as a pediatric occupational therapist with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, a role involving close work with children. Following the arrest, her profile was reportedly removed from the school district's website, and the district has not responded to inquiries about her current employment status.
Parents expressed disbelief and concern. One told WSOC-TV it was surprising someone in a helping profession would commit such a crime, while another questioned the thoroughness of background checks conducted by the school district, as reported by PEOPLE.
The Bigger Picture
This case highlights the intersection of technology and crime in a new and disturbing way. The alleged use of ChatGPT to research poisonings adds a digital dimension to the investigation, raising questions about how emerging technologies might be misused. Law enforcement officials have not commented on the victim's current condition or the full extent of the investigation, but the evidence collected paints a picture of premeditation and intent.
As the legal process unfolds, the community watches closely, grappling with the unsettling reality that a trusted school employee could be involved in such a serious crime. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities behind criminal acts and the importance of thorough investigations and safeguards in sensitive professions.
References: School Therapist Faces Attempted Murder Charge After Allegedly Spiking Husband's Energy Drink | North Carolina school therapist allegedly drugged husband's energy drink after researching lethal poisons on ChatGPT | North Carolina school therapist accused of trying to poison husband's energy drink charged with attempted murder
