Effingham County Judge Stephen Yekel Found Dead in Apparent Suicide

The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragic death of State Court Judge Stephen Yekel on Tuesday, December 31. Judge Yekel was found deceased in an empty courtroom at the Effingham County Courthouse around 10:30 a.m., in what authorities have confirmed to be a suicide.

Last Day in Office

The incident occurred on what was to be Judge Yekel’s final day on the bench. He had recently lost his bid for re-election in the June 18 runoff election to Judge Melissa Calhoun.

Following the discovery of Yekel’s body, Chief Judge F. Gates Peed issued an order to close the courthouse for the remainder of the day. Normal courthouse operations are set to resume on January 2, 2025. The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the judge’s death.

Judicial Career and Public Service

Judge Stephen Yekel was elected as Effingham County State Court Judge in 2022 to complete the term of Judge Ronnie Thompson, who had been appointed as a Superior Court Judge by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.

Yekel’s extensive legal career began after earning his degree from Atlanta Law School with superior grades. He served in various law enforcement and judicial roles, including as a special agent for Georgia’s Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Unit and an investigator for the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office. Yekel also worked with the Cobb County Fugitive Squad and the statewide Juvenile Apprehension Unit.

His judicial experience included serving as:

• Legal counsel for the mayor of Savannah.
• Judge pro tem for Chatham County Recorder’s Court (1993–2005).
• Judge pro tem for Chatham County Juvenile Court (2000–2005).

From 1980 to 2005, Yekel operated a private law practice in Effingham County, where he had been a resident since 1989.

State Court Jurisdiction in Effingham County

The Effingham County State Court presides over misdemeanor cases, with penalties ranging from one day to 12 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Community Reaction

The news of Judge Yekel’s death has sent shockwaves through the local legal and law enforcement communities. His dedication to public service and legal expertise earned him respect from colleagues and community members alike.

This tragic incident highlights the pressures and challenges faced by those in public service, particularly in the judiciary. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress or considering suicide, please reach out to a trusted individual or contact a suicide prevention hotline for support.