Summary

Judge Stephen Yekel, 74, died by suicide in his courtroom on his last day in office after losing a re-election bid.

He was found Tuesday morning at Effingham County State Courthouse, with investigators believing the incident occurred late Monday or early Tuesday.

Yekel, appointed in 2022, had recently attempted to resign but was denied by Governor Brian Kemp.

He was also facing a wrongful termination lawsuit from a former court employee.

  • ScoopMcPoops@lemmy.world
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    19 days ago

    Idk if a judge offing himself because he lost his election bid would inspire many copy cats. His life wasn’t ruined, it probably would’ve been if he hadn’t died. But he didn’t want to wait to find out apparently.