Full Breakdown
Arrest of Surry County Elections Chair for Allegedly Drugging Granddaughters' Ice Cream
8/29/2025, 9:18:32 PM
Incident Overview
James Edwin Yokeley Jr., the 66-year-old chair of the Surry County Board of Elections in North Carolina, was arrested on August 26, 2025, after allegedly placing illegal narcotics in the ice cream of his two granddaughters. The incident occurred on August 8 when Yokeley flagged down a Wilmington police officer at a Sheetz gas station, claiming his granddaughters had discovered pills in their Dairy Queen Blizzards purchased from a nearby Dairy Queen on Oleander Drive. Medical personnel later confirmed that the children had not ingested the substances.
Charges and Investigation
Yokeley faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of contaminating food or drink with a controlled substance, felony child abuse, and possession of Schedule I narcotics. Preliminary tests indicated that the pills contained MDMA and cocaine. The investigation revealed video footage showing Yokeley placing the pills into the ice cream, leading to his arrest. Following the incident, he was held at the New Hanover County Detention Center and released after posting a $100,000 secured bond.
Resignation from Elections Board
In the wake of his arrest, Yokeley resigned from his position as chair of the Surry County Board of Elections on August 27. His resignation came shortly after State Auditor Dave Boliek called for his departure, citing the need for the board to focus on election management without distraction. Yokeley stated in his resignation letter that he believed stepping down was in the best interest of the board and expressed confidence in his eventual exoneration.
Official Responses
The North Carolina State Board of Elections acknowledged the situation, stating they would continue to gather information and support the Surry County board. Boliek emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “The arrest and investigation of the Surry County Board of Elections Chair is very disturbing. This matter distracts from election management in Surry County and must be addressed quickly and directly.”
Criticism and Opposition
Yokeley’s arrest has drawn significant attention and concern from local officials and the public. Boliek, who appointed Yokeley to the board in June, expressed that the allegations were troubling and warranted immediate action. Critics have highlighted the potential implications of such behavior from an election official, raising questions about the integrity of local governance.
What's Next
The investigation into Yokeley’s actions is ongoing, with laboratory results pending to confirm the substances found in the ice cream. The State Board of Elections plans to appoint a new chair for the Surry County Board of Elections following Yokeley’s resignation, with nominations expected from the state Republican Party.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After much prayer, thoughtful reflection and consultation, I have concluded that it’s in the best interest of the State Board of Elections and Surry County Board of Elections, regarding my own falsely accused circumstances, to step down at this time.” — James Yokeley Jr.
- “The arrest and investigation of the Surry County Board of Elections Chair is very disturbing. This matter distracts from election management in Surry County and must be addressed quickly and directly,” — Dave Boliek, State Auditor
This incident raises serious concerns about the responsibilities and conduct of public officials, particularly those in positions of trust and authority.
