Local News

Grants Pass Police arrested a man after a reported robbery at the Lil' Pantry Sunday evening.

At 5:25 p.m., a man carrying a knife was reported to have just stolen money and cigarettes from the 979 Rogue River Highway location. An officer observed the suspect asking people for a lighter while walking Eastbound on Fruitdale Drive.

The man was identified as Andre Cotton, and the officer advised him he was under arrest. Cotton ignored the lawful commands and continued walking. Additional units arrived at the scene, and, despite commands, Cotton remained uncompliant.

Officers, using a less lethal shotgun, deployed a beanbag, prompting Cotton to comply. He was subsequently taken into custody. The cigarettes were located on his person, and both they and the knife were logged.

Medical clearance was given to Cotton from Three Rivers Medical Center, and he was transported to the Josephine County Jail. Officer lodged him for Third Degree Theft, Escape in the Third Degree, and Resisting Arrest. A charge of Menacing was forwarded to the District Attorney's Office.