On Tuesday June 21, 2016, Department of Revenue Agents executed search warrants at all locations of Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles, and their corporate headquarters. In addition to the search warrants, Agents unsuccessfully attempted to serve arrest warrants on Shanga Hankerson, Gladys Knight’s son, at his home.

The Department of Revenue opened a criminal theft case into Shanga Hankerson alleging he has failed to remit sales and withholding taxes. The Department further alleges that Hankerson used these funds for personal use. Hankerson is accused of stealing over $650,000 in sales and withholding taxes owed to the State, after penalties and interest the total exceeds $1 million. Criminal charges include theft by taking and theft by conversion.

“It is never The Department of Revenue’s primary goal to shut down a business,” said Josh Waites, Director, of Office of Special Investigations. “We are working with Mr. Hankerson’s attorney to have the business up and running again as soon as possible.’

As soon as a receivership agreement is reached between the State and Hankerson, the restaurant should reopen for business.

Gladys Knight is not suspected of any criminal activity.

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