Convicted sex offender skips sentencing

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office reported that Gary Louis Coomer, 51, of Sweet Home, was arrested on his outstanding arrest warrants.  On Jan. 12, 2024, a jury found Coomer guilty on charges of first degree sodomy, first degree rape, and two counts of first degree sexual abuse.  The judge ordered him released and to return to court on Feb. 15  for sentencing. When Coomer failed to appear, warrants were issued for his arrest.

Law enforcement officials from the LCSO, Lebanon Police Department and Sweet Home Police Department worked together to apprehend Coomer since he failed to appear for his sentencing. Law enforcement officials conducted surveillance, contacted known associates of Coomer, and tracked down all leads from the public.

The LCSO located Coomer hiding on a property east of Lebanon. He was given commands to surrender to law enforcement, but ignored those commands. Once a K-9 unit from the LPD arrived on scene and began giving commands to Coomer, he surrendered peacefully. Once Coomer was taken into custody, he complained of medical issues. Coomer was transported to the Lebanon Community Hospital to be evaluated. Once cleared, he will be taken to the Linn County Jail where he will be lodged without bail and wait to be sentenced at the Linn County Circuit Court.