Therapist Accused of Using AI for Poison Plot

A Shocking Accusation

In a disturbing case from North Carolina, a school occupational therapist has been arrested following allegations that she attempted to poison her husband. Cheryl Harris Gates, 43, was taken into custody after authorities claim she spiked her husband’s Celsius energy drink with prescription medication. The arrest warrant, obtained by The Post, states the alleged goal was to induce a blackout or incapacitate him.

Cheryl Harris Gates faces serious charges, including attempted murder. Photo: Mecklenburg County Detention Center

The ChatGPT Connection

What makes this case particularly modern and chilling is the alleged involvement of artificial intelligence. According to the arrest affidavit, Gates is accused of using ChatGPT between July 8 and September 29 to research dangerous drug combinations. Her queries allegedly focused on "lethal" and "incapacitating" substances that could be either injected or consumed, signaling a premeditated effort to find a way to harm her husband.

Investigation Uncovers Damning Evidence

Investigators delved into online records, which they claim revealed a trail of research, material purchases, and a clear plan of action. A search of Gates's workspace at her home uncovered a trove of concerning items. Authorities reported finding syringes, a capsule filling kit, medical droppers, scales, and various medications, all of which they believe were part of the alleged plot.

Authorities discovered syringes, scales, and other evidence at the suspect's residence. Photo: Christopher Sadowski

A Pattern of Incidents and Escalating Charges

The victim, her husband, told authorities he experienced two separate incidents of incapacitation. He reported finding a foreign, controlled substance in his drink on both July 12 and August 18. Court documents noted that the couple was not living together when these events occurred.

The charges against Gates are severe, including attempted first-degree murder and contaminating food or drink with intent to cause harm. Her legal troubles didn't stop there. She faces additional charges from an arrest the previous week for stalking and damage to property, after allegedly placing a tracker on her husband’s vehicle and damaging a window on his property. After being released from jail for the first arrest, she was denied bond following the second.

Community Reacts to Disturbing News

Gates was employed as an occupational therapist at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, a fact that has alarmed parents in the district. A webpage detailing her role has since been taken down. The school district has not yet commented on the matter.

One parent, Laurie Leebrick, expressed her concern to a local news station. “She never should have been around kids at all,” Leebrick said, adding, “They should have done better background checks.”