Fort Collins, CO – A Loveland man has been arrested in connection with a 2023 hoax device that shut down the Larimer County Justice Center for an entire day, authorities announced Tuesday.
According to the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a suspicious device outside the courthouse on July 31, 2023. The Justice Center and surrounding businesses were evacuated, and court proceedings were canceled as the Northern Colorado Bomb Squad removed what appeared to be an explosive.
Bomb technicians later determined the device was fake but intentionally designed to resemble an improvised explosive, complete with wiring and road flares. After an extensive two-year investigation with help from the FBI, investigators identified Harold West, 43, of Loveland as the suspect.
West was arrested on November 4, 2025, and booked into the Larimer County Jail on multiple charges, including attempt to influence a public servant, possession of hoax explosive components, and obstructing government operations.
Captain Bobby Moll of the Investigations Division said the case underscores the importance of public safety partnerships between agencies, adding that the long-term investigation required coordination with the FBI, ATF, and several local departments.
Authorities emphasized that the charges remain accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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