In Waynesboro, Georgia, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives recently conducted a raid on Cates Firestone, which serves as the Burke County Sheriff’s Office auto shop. The business is owned by Daniel Cates, who has been at the center of a federal investigation.
Cates was involved in an illegal gambling operation that resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars being funneled through various businesses, including $250,000 through Cates Firestone. Along with Grady Brandon Mobley, Cates pleaded guilty to this operation and received three years of probation. However, Mobley recently violated his probation by using and possessing alcohol and getting arrested.
Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams acted as a character witness for both Cates and Mobley during their sentencing, advocating for leniency. Campaign records show that both the Mobley and Cates families were significant contributors to Williams’ campaign for sheriff.
Authorities searched Cates’ residence and Cates Firestone during the recent ATF raid. While the purpose of this raid has not been disclosed, it is known that Cates is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court for a probation revocation hearing. The investigation into these matters is ongoing.
