A North Carolina school therapist has been accused of using ChatGPT to research methods of poisoning her husband before allegedly spiking his energy drink with prescription medication, according to authorities.
Arrest and Allegations
Cheryl Harris Gates, 43, was arrested on Friday and charged with attempted first-degree murder and contaminating food or drink with the intent to cause harm. Investigators allege she secretly added medication to her husband’s Celsius energy drink with the intention of causing him to lose consciousness or become incapacitated.
ChatGPT Searches Discovered
An arrest affidavit revealed that Gates used ChatGPT between July 8 and September 29 to search for “lethal” and “incapacitating” drug combinations. She allegedly looked up ways to mix or inject substances capable of causing harm.
Evidence Found at Her Home
Police said a search of Gates’ home uncovered syringes, medical droppers, scales, a capsule-filling kit, prescription drugs, and other materials believed to have been used in the plot. Authorities stated the items were found in her workspace, suggesting she had been preparing to execute her plan.
Digital Trail and Online Purchases
Court documents claim investigators traced Gates’ online activity and purchases that matched the materials discovered in her home. The evidence allegedly confirmed she had both researched and attempted to obtain the tools required for poisoning.
School Webpage Taken Down
Following her arrest, the webpage listing Gates as a staff member on her school’s website was removed. The school district has yet to respond to multiple media requests for comment regarding her employment or the safety review of staff members.
Separate Arrest for Stalking
In a separate incident earlier this month, Gates was arrested for stalking and property damage. Warrants allege she placed a tracking device on her husband’s vehicle and broke a window at his property.
Released, Then Denied Bond
Gates was initially released from Mecklenburg County Jail after her first arrest, but was denied bond following her second detention related to the poisoning allegations. She is currently being held as the investigation continues.
Husband’s Condition and Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not disclosed the current medical condition of Gates’ husband, but confirmed that he survived the alleged poisoning attempt. Investigators continue to examine both her online activities and purchases to determine whether she acted alone.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The case has sparked outrage among parents and community members, with many questioning how Gates was allowed to work with children. One parent, Laurie Leebrick, told WSOC-TV, “She never should have been around kids at all. They should have done better background checks.”
Technology and Crime Concerns
Law enforcement officials have expressed growing concern about the misuse of AI tools in criminal activity, particularly as platforms like ChatGPT become more accessible. The case has renewed debate about how AI technology can be monitored to prevent misuse.
Awaiting Court Proceedings
Gates is expected to appear in court later this month. If convicted, she could face decades in prison. Authorities say further charges could be added as the investigation expands into her digital history and personal conduct.
Editing by M10News Crime Desk | Contact: crime@m10news.com
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