The death of Georgia Judge Stephen Yekel on December 31, 2024, sent shockwaves across the entire legal profession of Georgia. Yekel’s death came as a shock to almost everyone, as on the last day of his tenure, he was found dead in his courtroom from what seemed like suicide.
The manner of his death has turned the conversation on mental health for judicial members and the burden of serving in the public office. In this article, we will look at the life and contributions of Yekel.
Early Life and Education
With a passion for serving the public and an interest in the law, Stephen R. Yekel completed his schooling in 1950. He started off at Gordon Military College, which is well reputed for molding its students into disciplined leaders.
He then moved on to Auburn University for a degree, followed by studying law. Yekel’s passion for fairness made him earn his law degree from Atlanta Law School. This commitment earned him the right to practice law in several high-ranking courts, such as:
- The Supreme Court of Georgia
- The Georgia Court of Appeals
- The Federal District Court of Northern Georgia
His legal practice background made it easier for him to work in the police force as well as in the judicial system.
Career in Law Enforcement and Private Practice
Georgia Judge Stephen Yekel served in multiple law enforcement positions prior to being a judge while also having some private practice. He also worked at many prominent positions, which included the following:
- Was Special Agent by the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Unit of Georgia.
- Served as an investigator for Cobb County District Attorney Office.
- Worked as a member of Cobb County Fugitive Squad.
- Was a Juvenile Apprehension Unit leader on a statewide basis.
In 1980, Yekel moved to private practice, where he spent his years till 2005. This period awarded him a lot of esteem for his prowess in legal consultancy as well as for his methodical approach towards litigation. Some of his positions include:
- Counsel for Mayor of Savannah
- Chatham County Recorder’s Court judge pro tem
- Chatham County Juvenile Court judge pro tem.
Appointment as Effingham County State Court Judge
Judge Stephen Yekel from Georgia was appointed to the Effingham County State Court in June 2022, after an appointment from Brian Kemp. His appointment was part of the wider revamping of the Georgia court system by onboarding experienced professionals into positions of authority.
Yekel earned the respect of his peers as a judge because of the balanced and lawful decisions that he made. His term was not without tumult, especially during the election period of 2024.
Read Also: Cal Poly Student Death
Election Defeat and the Final Months
Yekel wanted to elongate his term, and so he ran for reelection in May 2024. During the May 21 primary, he had the highest vote share but lacked the majority vote required. This meant he was forced into a runoff election on June 18 against Melissa Calhoun.
Despite the fact that his legal experience and other professionally relevant factors worked in his favor, he lost the election on the 18th of June, deriving substantial disillusionment as Yekel aimed to serve the Effingham County judicial body.
After losing the election, Yekel wrote a resignation letter to Governor Brian Kemp and proposed his effective date for resignation to be December 30, 2024. However, Kemp did not accept his resignation. As a result, this meant that he would strictly have to serve until December 31, 2024, which unfortunately was his last day in office.
The Tragic Incident
View this post on Instagram
During the morning of December 31, 2024, while conducting their regular security patrol, Effingham County Sheriff’s Office deputies found Georgia Judge Stephen Yekel lifeless in his courtroom.
It has been reported that it appears Yekel took his own life by means of a self-inflicted gunshot. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an autopsy and inquiry surrounding the details of his death.
Conclusion
The death of Georgia Judge Stephen Yekel is an unfortunate reminder of the mental health problems that many public servants endure. His experience goes to show that judges and other legal practitioners need more mental health supports. As the community of Effingham County comes to grips with the judge’s death, let us recall what he stood for: justice, equity, and service.