Authorities in Coos County arrested a man after discovering sewage and large amounts of trash contaminating a waterway at an illegal campsite.
Investigation at Elliott State Forest
According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy responded to a complaint on March 25 near Marlow Creek in the Elliott State Forest.
Officials said campers had overstayed legal limits and left behind significant debris.
Disturbing Scene Discovered
At the site, deputies found:
- 🗑️ 30–40 garbage bags dumped over a bank near the creek
- 💧 Sewage and gray water leaking from beneath a trailer
- 🚨 A strong odor and visible fecal matter scattered around
- 🐕 Six unattended dogs, some of them injured
The waste appeared to be flowing directly toward the nearby waterway, raising environmental and public health concerns.
Arrest and Charges
Deputies arrested Zackary Graves, 27, on charges of:
- Placing offensive substances in a waterway
He was taken to the local jail.
Second Suspect Sought
Authorities are also seeking Jennifer Patterson, 45, in connection with the case. She was not present at the campsite during the investigation.
Animal Welfare Concerns
Animal control officers responded to the scene and removed all six dogs after determining they had been neglected.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials continue to investigate the environmental damage and potential additional charges related to illegal camping and animal neglect.
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