Yavapai County Attorney Dennis McGrane announced that on May 2, 2024, a Yavapai County jury found Raymond Jacob Coss, 28, of Prescott, guilty of theft by vehicle, unlawful flight from law enforcement, criminal damage to property and criminal trespass.

County Attorney McGrain thanked the jury for listening carefully to the case, thanked Prosecutors Jason Nunez and Anthony Garcia for their work in preparing for trial, and praised the Chino Valley Police Department and Yavapai County Sheriff's Office for their thorough investigation of Coss' crimes.

County Attorney Dennis McGrane said, “Mr. Coss's actions are dangerous and outrageous. When someone flees a traffic violation, they put police officers and everyone else on the road at risk. Stealing and destroying innocent people's vehicles is outrageous and deserves severe punishment. I commend the residents who stepped up to apprehend this fleeing felon. I hope the lengthy prison sentence Mr. Coss receives will serve as a deterrent to others who would engage in this type of behavior in Yavapai County.”

The incident began on the afternoon of February 16, 2022. Police officers recognized Mr. Coss as a subject of an open investigation. Officers from several local law enforcement agencies made contact with Mr. Coss a short time later. Mr. Coss was ordered to exit his vehicle but did not comply and fled, eventually crashing the vehicle. A foot pursuit ensued, with Mr. Coss eventually stealing a vehicle to flee. Mr. Coss quickly crashed the stolen vehicle and again fled on foot. Mr. Coss was eventually apprehended by several citizens who witnessed him fleeing from police.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 28, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. before Judge Phelan in Yavapai County Superior Court. Due to Coss' lengthy criminal history, he faces a minimum sentence of 11.25 years in prison.