Det. Sgt. Michael H. Gates

     Michael H. Gates, Det. Sgt. (Ret.) Cranston Police, 64 of Cranston, passed away on July 14, 2026, with his family by his side. He received a devastating diagnosis of ALS just over two years ago. Michael battled his disease with all the qualities that defined him as an person. He battled hand in hand with his family filled with extraordinary courage, determination, dignity, strength, and resilience.

     Born on May 4, 1962, in Providence, he was the son of the late Hollis and Brenda (Booth) Gates. He was the devoted, and cherished husband of Brenda (Barles) Gates, for over 40 years.

     After graduating high school, Michael attended Syracuse University, receiving his bachelor’s degree and then went on to Roger Williams University where he received his master’s degree. After an exceptional career spanning 30 years with the Cranston Police Department, Mike retired as a second shift Detective Sergeant. Throughout his career, he handled many high-profile, complex investigations with tenacious success and was a mentor to many young detectives. He was always willing to share his insight and knowledge in hopes of being able to shape the next generation. Mike also served as an adjunct professor for the Criminal Justice Program at New England Tech, for 7 years.

     However, his greatest love and accomplishments were his family. He was a little league and softball coach for 10 years for both his son and daughter. Michael became the proud Papa of Brielle and Averie and was the biggest fan of anything that his beloved granddaughters took part in. Even through his diagnosis, he made it a point to attend all gymnastics and softball events. Despite losing his voice, you could hear Michael cheering them on. He also looked forward to family trips and all the meaningful memories with his granddaughters.

     When he wasn’t with his family Mike could be found on his Harley Davidson enjoying wherever the open road took him.

     Besides his wife Brenda, he leaves his children Gianna Scotti and her husband Brandon of Cranston, and his son Michael H. Gates, Jr. He was the best Papa to his granddaughters, Brielle Scotti and Averie Scotti. He was the brother of Hollis Gates, Jr. and his wife Katie, and the brother-in-law of Rhonda Mandeville and her husband Dan. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.

     Rest in peace our brother. 

Mike being sworn in to the department.

Michael H. Gates

  Message from Cranston’s Chief of Police, Michael J. Winquist  

     It is with profound sadness and deep regret that I inform you of the passing of Sergeant Michael Gates (Badge #328). Sergeant Gates passed away this morning at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence.

     Sergeant Gates retired after an exceptional career spanning more than three decades of dedicated service to the Cranston Police Department and the City of Cranston. He was widely respected as a tenacious investigator who successfully handled many high-profile and complex investigations throughout his career. Beyond his investigative accomplishments, Mike was a trusted mentor who generously shared his knowledge with countless young detectives, helping to shape the next generation of investigators. More importantly, he was a loyal friend, trusted confidant, and someone whose character earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

     Following his retirement, Sergeant Gates was diagnosed with ALS. He faced this devastating disease with extraordinary courage, determination, and dignity—the same strength and resilience that defined his career as a police officer. His unwavering commitment to our department, his fellow officers, and the citizens of Cranston will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

     Please keep his wife, Brenda, his son-in-law, Officer Brandon Scotti, and the entire Gates family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.