A meat processing business owner in Cottage Grove, Oregon is facing multiple charges after investigators say he operated without the required license for nearly a year.
Owner Accused of Violating Wildlife Processing Laws
According to the Oregon State Police, 30-year-old Tanner Gates, owner of Gates Family Tradition, has been charged with 11 misdemeanor counts related to wildlife law violations.
Officials allege that Gates continued processing wild game despite not holding a valid license since June of last year.
Complaints From Hunters Trigger Investigation
The case gained attention after several hunters reported delays in receiving processed meat. Some customers claimed they waited months after dropping off deer, while others said they never got their meat back at all.
Authorities confirmed through the Oregon Department of Agriculture that the business had not renewed its processing license.
Hundreds of Deer Allegedly Processed Without Permit
During the investigation, troopers discovered multiple items on the property, including deer heads and antlers. Records also indicated that nearly 300 deer may have been processed after the license expired.
In addition to the criminal charges, Gates has been cited for hundreds of violations, including:
- Over 290 counts related to operating without the required license
- Additional violations for failing to maintain proper transfer records
Owner Cites Financial Struggles
Gates reportedly told investigators that he was unable to pay the $2,000 fee needed to renew his license. He claimed he had attempted to resolve the issue with regulators and even offered personal property as collateral.
Court Date Scheduled
Gates is scheduled to appear in court on May 1 as the case moves forward.
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