Shots were fired during a domestic incident in South Hall over the weekend, and a 39-year-old man ended up in jail on a number of charges including cruelty to children.
HALL CO. SHERIFF’S OFFICE NARRATIVE:
*On Saturday, March 23, HCSO deputies were called to a residence on Magnolia Way in Buford (Hall County address) to investigate an argument underway at the home.
As deputies were responding to the scene, dispatch advised several neighbors had called 911 to report hearing gunshots in the area. Deputies found Mr. Gates outside the residence.
An early assessment of the situation determined Mr. Gates was in possession of two pistols and he had been firing them in the air. Because deputies were unsure if he was still armed, he was ordered to show his hands. When Gates refused to comply with commands, he was tased and taken into custody.
Further investigation determined Mr. Gates had assaulted an adult female victim by grabbing her by the throat and pushing her to the ground. Two children under the age of 18 witnessed the assault.
As a result, Mr. Gates was charged with the following offenses:
· Battery under the Family Violence Act (FVA)
· Cruelty to children, third degree (two counts)
· Discharged a firearm while intoxicated
· Reckless conduct
· Obstruction of an officer”