Just hours before his term was to end, Stephen Yekel, a State Court Judge in Effingham County, Georgia, tragically took his own life in his courtroom, bringing a sorrowful conclusion to his 45-year legal tenure.
On the morning of December 31, 2024, deputies found the body of the 74-year-old judge. Investigators estimate that the tragic incident occurred late on the previous night or in the early hours of the same day.
Yekel’s death followed a challenging period after losing his re-election to Melissa Calhoun in a runoff election in July 2024. The election witnessed an alarmingly low voter turnout, with only 6% of eligible voters participating, sparking concerns about voter engagement in local judicial races.
On December 6, Yekel tried to resign, arguing that the State Court Judge’s position was too important to be decided by such a small portion of eligible voters. However, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp rejected his resignation on December 12, contending that election results should not be voided based on a “manufactured legal technicality.” Such resignation attempts towards the end of terms are rare in Georgia’s judicial history.
Before his appointment to the state court by Governor Kemp in June 2022, Yekel had built up a comprehensive legal career of over 40 years. He served as an assistant district attorney in Chatham County, Georgia, and held various legal and enforcement roles. Yekel was known among his peers for his meticulous preparation and extensive understanding of state law.
Yekel was also confronting professional challenges beyond his election loss. A former court administrator had filed a lawsuit against him, claiming wrongful termination and conspiracy to favor another judge, violating state employment laws, and seeking compensatory damages.
Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie, leading the investigation, spoke about the impact on Yekel’s family: “This is never good for anybody. The family is distraught. This is supposed to be a happy time this time of year, and now they’ve got this. I can’t imagine. If they have anything they need from us, we’ll be available.” McDuffie confirmed that a thorough investigation would be conducted in line with state protocols for deaths in government facilities.
The Effingham County Courthouse paused operations after the incident. A crisis response team was assembled to provide counseling services to county employees, many of whom had worked closely with Yekel.
Yekel, a married father of four, left behind a note addressed to Governor Kemp, the contents of which remain undisclosed. He had a distinguished legal career, including service as a special agent with federal law enforcement agencies and various district attorneys’ offices across Georgia. The Effingham County Board of Commissioners released a statement expressing their profound sadness and offering condolences to his family and loved ones.
Judge-elect Melissa Calhoun, scheduled to take office on January 1, 2025, decided to delay her swearing-in ceremony out of respect for Yekel’s family. County officials stated that temporary arrangements would be made to manage the court’s caseload during the transition period.
