Effingham County, Georgia, is reeling from tragedy as Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, died by suicide inside his courtroom.
The incident occurred late Monday night into early Tuesday, on what would have been his last day on the bench following a recent election loss.
Yekel’s body was discovered Tuesday morning, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, GBI, is currently probing the circumstances surrounding his death.
Judge Yekel, who had served since his appointment in 2022, attempted to resign from his position after losing his re-election bid.
However, Governor Brian Kemp rejected his resignation, citing a desire to respect “the will of the people of Effingham County.”
Yekel expressed frustration in his resignation letter, stating that only 6 per cent of eligible voters had participated in the election he lost to Judge Melissa M. Calhoun.
Yekel’s death follows a difficult year marked by personal and professional challenges. His ex-wife, Lisa Yekel, had publicly defended him against rumours related to their divorce and his re-election campaign.
She also revealed financial difficulties stemming from a failed daycare business and described him as “one of the most respectful, honest, and caring people I know.”
In addition to his election loss, Yekel was facing a lawsuit from court employee Lisa Crawford, who alleged wrongful termination and sought $10,000 in damages.
Crawford claimed Yekel fired her to replace her with his own staff and accused her of conspiring to reduce charges for DUI offenders, allegations Yekel denied in an email submitted as evidence in the case.
Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie expressed shock and sadness over the incident, announcing that the courtroom would remain closed until January 2.
The county extended its condolences to Yekel’s family and loved ones, describing his death as a significant loss.
Governor Kemp has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the tragedy.
Judge Yekel had a long and distinguished career in law enforcement and the judiciary. Before he was appointed judge, he served as an assistant district attorney in Chatham County and worked as a special agent with Georgia’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Unit.
He leaves behind four children—Sean, Ashleigh, Blake, and Brett—and a legacy of service that many in the community are now mourning.
