Former GOP Official James Yokeley Jr. Faces Grave Charges of Drugging Granddaughter

A disturbing revelation has shaken the political landscape of North Carolina's Davidson County, as former Republican official James Yokeley Jr. now stands accused of a heinous act: felony child abuse. The allegations, which emerged after a terrifying incident in February, paint a grim picture of a profound betrayal of trust, deeply impacting his own family.

According to court documents and law enforcement reports, Yokeley Jr., a prominent figure who once served on the Davidson County Board of Elections, is alleged to have intentionally drugged his young granddaughter's Dairy Queen ice cream.

The motive behind this chilling act, authorities claim, was to sedate the child and prevent her from disclosing an alleged sexual assault that she reportedly intended to reveal to her mother.

The incident reportedly took place earlier this year, when Yokeley Jr. is said to have added a sedative—believed to be Benadryl or a similar substance—to his granddaughter's treat.

The child subsequently experienced the effects of the drug, raising immediate alarm and leading to a police investigation that culminated in Yokeley Jr.'s arrest in May.

These grave charges have sent shockwaves through the community, not only due to the nature of the alleged crime but also given Yokeley Jr.'s past public service.

His history, however, is not entirely unblemished. While his previous political roles brought him into the public eye, court records indicate prior encounters with the law, including misdemeanor charges for assault on a female and child abuse, though these specific charges were reportedly dismissed in the past.

The current felony child abuse charge is a severe accusation, carrying significant legal ramifications.

Yokeley Jr. has been held on a substantial bond, awaiting further legal proceedings. The case underscores the devastating impact of alleged abuse, particularly when perpetrated by a figure entrusted with care, and highlights the courage required for victims to come forward.

As the legal process unfolds in Davidson County, the community grapples with the details of this deeply troubling case.

The focus remains on justice for the alleged victim and a thorough investigation into the actions of a man once considered a respected local official, now at the center of a heartbreaking and shocking criminal inquiry.