More Ungodly Accusations

Not only is Joplin, Mo., concert promoter Derrick Gates accused of stealing funds from merch and food vendors but now Compassion International, a Christian ministry that raises money for children worldwide, has added its name to the list of victims.

A representative for the charity confirmed that the group sent Gates a $2,000 check in June to solicit donations from fans attending Gates’ Godstock, a Christian festival scheduled for September 14-16. After the festival was canceled, the charity asked for a refund but never got a response from Gates or anyone else involved with the event, according to the Joplin Globe.

Court records show the promoter received more than $29,500 from at least 70 vendors throughout North America. Gates is accused of stealing the funds after he promoted and then canceled Godstock as well as Battle for the Mic, a rap concert in Kansas City, Kan., and the Ink Deep Tattoo and Piercing Convention in Kansas City, Mo.

Co-defendants are Josh Allen, whom authorities say was an employee of HardNox Productions, which promoted the tattoo convention, and promoter Zachary Grimm.

The three individuals have had their assets frozen and a temporary restraining order placed against them that prohibits them from advertising or promoting events without depositing a $200,000 security bond with the court.