Former police, college safety officer charged with embezzlement | Crime

SALISBURY - David Bates, a man with a long history working for various law enforcement agencies in and around Rowan County, is now in jail under a bond of $200,000.

Bates, 48, was booked into the Rowan County Detention Center just after 7:30 Saturday night, charged with embezzling/receiving property by virtue of office.  Bates had been working for the Apple Baking Company of Salisbury.

Among other positions, Bates was a one time sheriff's deputy with Rowan County and served in the Public Safety Office at Catawba College.  Bates also operated his owned business providing inflatables for outdoor parties and gatherings.  Bates also was a former officer in China Grove, East Spencer, and served as chief for the Gibson Police Department.

Bates gained recognition in 2000 while working undercover making drug buys in the Logan community in Concord.  Work by Bates and other officers led to more than 50 charges for drug suspects.

Bates also ran unsuccessfully for the Rowan School Board in 2000.

WBTV is working to learn more about the charges.  Check back for updates.