Coos County, OR – A routine response to a complaint in Elliot State Forest led to multiple alleged violations, including illegal camping, environmental hazards, and animal neglect.
According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded Tuesday around 11:15 a.m. when a deputy responded to Marlow Creek following reports of illegal camping activity. Authorities said the individuals at the site had allegedly exceeded the maximum camping limit and left debris scattered throughout the area.
Investigators reported discovering approximately 30 to 40 bags of garbage piled near a creek bank and behind a trailer positioned between a camper and the waterway. Officials noted a strong odor coming from a mixture of sewage and gray water allegedly leaking beneath the camper. A significant amount of fecal matter, believed to be from animals or other sources, was also found around the trailer.
Zackary E. Graves, 27, was taken into custody and is accused of placing offensive substances in a waterway. He was transported to the Coos County Jail. Deputies further stated that several dogs at the scene were allegedly injured or unattended, prompting Animal Control to remove all six animals.
Authorities said another individual associated with the campsite, Jennifer L. Patterson, 45, was not present during the initial response but may also face charges related to the alleged environmental violations.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to review evidence and determine additional enforcement actions. The sheriff’s office emphasized that all individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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