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.
