Local News

Sunriver Business Owner Accused Of Luring Teen Job Seeker

BEND, OR -- A 54-year-old La Pine man is accused of sending sexually explicit text messages to a 17-year-old he claimed he wanted to hire for part-time office work. The girl had posted on social media, looking for a job and investigators say John Matthew Cooper responded; he owns Cooper Racing and Repair in Sunriver.

The teen later reported to her mother she was uncomfortable with his messages, and her mother reported the incident to Bend Police. Officers continued messaging with Cooper, who believed he was still communicating with the 17-year-old. Over the course of the investigation, they say he offered the girl alcohol, sent her explicit photos, and requested explicit photos and sexual favors. He also indicated he’d had other teens work for him in the past, including customers’ daughters. 

Cooper was arrested Thursday at his business Cooper Racing and Repair in the 56000 block of Venture Lane in Sunriver. He is charged with second-degree online sexual corruption of a child, luring a minor for sexual conduct, and attempted use of a child in display of sexual conduct. 

Bend Police are concerned there may be additional victims. Anyone who may have had inappropriate contact with Cooper is asked to contact nonemergency dispatch at 541-693-6911 and reference case # 23-00011214.

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