Grandfather Accused of Drugging Grandchildren's Ice Cream

On August 8, 2025, James Yokeley Jr. flagged down a Wilmington Police Officer to report that his granddaughters found suspicious blue pills in their Dairy Queen ice cream purchased on Oleander Drive. However, an investigation revealed that Yokeley himself was allegedly responsible for placing the pills in the ice cream. The pills tested positive for MDMA and cocaine.

Sarah Whisenant, the owner of the Dairy Queen, confirmed that Yokeley visited the store on August 3, near closing time, to order the Blizzards. Security footage confirmed Yokeley's actions, leading to his arrest.

Yokeley served as the chair of the Surry County Board of Elections. Following his arrest, he resigned from his position. The State Board of Elections acknowledged the situation and stated they would appoint a new chair after receiving nominations from the North Carolina Republican Party.

Yokeley appeared in court on August 27 and waived his right to a court-appointed attorney. He is prohibited from contacting the children involved. The investigation is ongoing, according to the Wilmington Police Department.

Yokeley has been charged with two counts of felony contaminating food or drink with a controlled substance, felony child abuse, and felony possession of Schedule I narcotics.

Yes, he has resigned from his position as chair of the Surry County Board of Elections.

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