Willoughby police are asking residents to keep an eye out for Michael Tate, 51, who they say is wanted on a stack of charges that now includes burglary, a probation violation, contempt of court and two counts of failure to appear. Officers describe Tate as a white male, about 5 feet 11 inches tall and 190 pounds, with his last known address in the Broadway area of Cleveland.
Authorities are urging people not to approach or confront him. Instead, they want anyone who spots Tate or has information about where he might be to call investigators right away.
What officers say
The Willoughby Police Department told local media that Tate also has prior arrests for felonious assault, aggravated robbery and narcotics-related offenses. According to News 5 Cleveland, tips can be provided anonymously, and anyone who locates Tate should contact investigators at 440-953-4210 rather than attempting to detain him on their own.
How to report tips
The Willoughby Police Department's public information page lists the department's non-emergency contacts and the station address for residents who want to reach out directly. For emergencies, the site says to dial 911, while non-urgent administration and records contacts are available through the city's website.
The department's station is listed at 36700 Euclid Ave in Willoughby, according to the Willoughby Police Department.
What the charges mean
Failure to appear and probation violation charges can lead to immediate warrants and additional penalties. Burglary allegations may be reviewed in municipal court first, then referred to the county court level if treated as a felony. Per the Willoughby Municipal Court, felony cases are initially checked for probable cause before being sent to the Lake County Common Pleas Court when appropriate. That process means any new arrests or filings in Tate's case could ultimately move beyond the municipal docket.
Willoughby police said they plan to keep working every lead and are asking neighbors in both northeastern Cleveland and Willoughby to look over their surveillance footage and report anything that seems suspicious. Anyone with information about Tate's whereabouts is urged to contact investigators at the number provided to media outlets.
