Overview

• James Edwin Yokeley Jr., 66, was arrested in Wilmington and charged with felony child abuse, two counts of contaminating food or drink with a controlled substance, and felony possession of Schedule I narcotics.
• He posted a $100,000 secured bond after being booked into the New Hanover County Detention Center, and a judge barred contact with the grandchildren involved, according to local reports.
• Police say the teens, ages 15 and 16, did not ingest the pills and were medically evaluated at the scene.
• Preliminary tests indicated the pills contained cocaine and MDMA, with samples sent to a state laboratory for confirmation as investigators continue without a disclosed motive.
• Appointed chair in June by State Auditor Dave Boliek, Yokeley resigned following calls for his removal; election officials say they will appoint a replacement, and a court date is set for Sept. 11.