COOS BAY POLICE DEPARTMENT K9 ARCO MAKES FIRST CAPTURE, ROBBERY SUSPECT ARRESTED

Coos Bay Police Department 

A Coos Bay man has been arrested following an armed robbery investigation and successful apprehension by K9 Arco.

On January 14, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., a man wearing a mask and a red jacket and brandishing what appeared to be a pistol robbed the drive-through at Taco Bell, located at 1015 S. 1st St. in Coos Bay. The suspect approached the drive-through window and confronted an employee. As staff members moved to the back of the store for safety, the suspect stole the cash register and fled the area.

Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) officers responded to Taco Bell and began an extensive

investigation, which included gathering video surveillance from nearby businesses. Through their

investigation, officers identified 29‑year‑old James Love of Coos Bay as the suspect involved in the robbery.

On January 19, 2026, at approximately 9:00 a.m., officers located Mr. Love near the 1300 block of Elrod Ave. When officers attempted to contact him, Mr. Love fled on foot. Due to his history and alleged involvement in the armed robbery, Officer R. Scoville deployed K9 Arco, who pursued Love as he ran into a tent. K9 Arco successfully apprehended Love, who then surrendered to officers. 

Mr. Love was taken into custody and lodged at the Coos County Jail on the below-listed charges related to the robbery and unrelated warrants:

• Robbery II

• Theft II

• Coos County Sheriff’s Office warrant charging Strangulation, Menacing, Assault IV, Recklessly

Endangering Another

• Washington State warrant (extraditable nationwide) charging Escape Community Custody –

Robbery I

The CBPD is thankful for the community’s ongoing support, which made the acquisition and deployment of K9 Arco possible. This successful capture highlights the value of the CBPD K9 program and its role in keeping our community safe.