A man accused of raping a hotel employee in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, last year is now in custody. Lower Allen Township police arrested 28-year-old Michael Cates on Tuesday (January 7). Cates is charged with multiple offenses, including rape and access device fraud.
The incident occurred on February 11, 2024, at the Courtyard Marriott on Gettysburg Road. According to police, Cates allegedly forced a hotel employee into his room and sexually assaulted her. The victim was working at the hotel bar when Cates, a guest, requested food and drinks to be brought to his room. When she delivered the order, Cates allegedly pulled her inside and assaulted her.
Cates reportedly used a false name to rent the room, and the credit card he provided was declined. However, video surveillance captured images of the suspect, which matched Cates' tattoos and facial features. The victim later identified Cates from a photo array.
The Lower Allen Township Police Department, with assistance from the US Marshals, served the arrest warrant for Cates. He now faces charges of rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and rape threat of forcible compulsion.
According to Crimewatch PA, Cates was also charged with access device fraud.
ABC27 reports that the arrest warrant for Cates was issued in August 2024.