“Georgia Judge Tragically Takes Own Life in Courtroom Amid Personal and Professional Struggles”
An elderly judge in Georgia tragically took his own life inside his courtroom during the holiday season.
According to WSAV, 74-year-old Judge Stephen Yekel, a state court judge in Effingham County, was found dead in the courtroom on Tuesday morning by a deputy. Authorities believe he shot himself late Monday night or early Tuesday. The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his death as a suicide.
Judge Yekel’s death came on what was supposed to be his last day on the bench, as he had lost his re-election bid earlier this year. Appointed by Governor Brian Kemp in June 2022, Yekel had previously worked as a lawyer for over 45 years. He had also served as a special agent for Georgia’s Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Unit and as an investigator for the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office.
Reports revealed that Yekel had attempted to resign from his position before his death, but Governor Kemp declined to accept his resignation. Officials also confirmed that a note was sent to Governor Kemp’s office, though the details have not been made public.
Yekel’s personal life had reportedly been difficult following his re-election loss. He had faced the death of his best friend, a wrongful termination lawsuit, and financial struggles linked to a failed daycare business. His ex-wife, Lisa Yekel, said the daycare’s failure had drained his life savings. The couple divorced last year.
“He did everything he could to avoid bankruptcy,” Lisa said.
Judge Yekel is survived by his four children: Sean, Ashleigh, Blake, and Brett.
The courtroom where Yekel’s death occurred has been closed and will reopen on January 2. The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct an autopsy.
