Law enforcement authorities are actively searching for Floyd Cooper, a 27-year-old man from Racine, Wisconsin, who is wanted for a violent robbery and shooting that occurred over the summer. Cooper, a known member of the “Dirty Pea” gang, is considered armed and dangerous, with a violent history involving drugs, money, and firearms. U.S. Marshals are urging the public to assist in locating him, as his actions continue to pose a threat to public safety.
Violent Crime at Birthday Party
In June 2023, Cooper and another man were involved in a robbery and shooting in Racine. The incident took place at a birthday party in a parking lot, where a group of people were gathered, flashing money and taking photographs. According to Racine police, Cooper and his accomplice pulled out guns, confronting the group, demanding cash, and even taking personal belongings like glasses. Tensions escalated when, after robbing the victims, Cooper and his associate opened fire on the group, injuring one person.
The event was particularly shocking given Cooper’s previous attendance at a local “Guns Down” event, an initiative aimed at stopping violence in the community. Despite the event’s peaceful intentions, Cooper’s involvement in the shooting later that evening sent a clear signal that he was not abandoning his violent tendencies.
Identified via Social Media
Authorities quickly identified Floyd Cooper as one of the perpetrators of the robbery and shooting. A key piece of evidence in identifying him was a Snapchat video that captured footage of the incident, linking Cooper to the crime. Although charges were filed against him following the incident, Cooper was not arrested at that time and remains at large.
The incident marked a continuation of Cooper’s involvement in criminal activities. At the time of the robbery and shooting, Cooper had already been out on bond for a previous arrest related to suspected drug dealing. In that earlier arrest, law enforcement officers discovered money and drugs, and multiple individuals were taken into custody. Cooper’s ability to remain out of police custody has continued to frustrate local law enforcement and federal authorities alike.
Cooper’s Criminal Background and Threat Level
Floyd Cooper has a well-documented history of violence and criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies have noted his association with the “Dirty Pea” gang, a group known for its involvement in violent crimes, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities. Given his violent tendencies and known access to firearms, authorities consider him a significant public safety threat.
U.S. Marshals, who are now leading the manhunt for Cooper, have emphasized that they want to resolve the situation peacefully, but they remain concerned about the possibility of further violence if Cooper is not apprehended soon. Marshals are working closely with local law enforcement agencies in Racine and surrounding areas to track down Cooper’s whereabouts and ensure that no more innocent lives are endangered.
Public Call for Assistance
In an effort to gather information and expedite Cooper’s capture, U.S. Marshals have released a description of him and are asking the public for help. Floyd Cooper is described as six feet, one inch tall, weighing approximately 215 pounds. He is known to go by the nicknames “Tootsie” and “Tully” and has connections to several locations beyond Racine, including Kenosha, Memphis, and Tennessee.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Cooper or has information on his whereabouts to contact the U.S. Marshals tip line at (414) 297-3707. The marshals emphasized the importance of this case, noting the serious threat Cooper poses to the community. The hope is that, with public assistance, Cooper can be apprehended before further harm is caused.
Law Enforcement Efforts and Community Safety
The search for Floyd Cooper has intensified, with U.S. Marshals focusing on areas where he is believed to have connections. His ability to evade arrest so far has raised concerns about his access to weapons and his willingness to use them. Law enforcement officials are particularly concerned that Cooper, given his violent history and gang affiliations, may continue to engage in dangerous behavior if not apprehended soon.
Officials have urged Cooper to turn himself in, expressing hope that he will see the gravity of the situation and come forward voluntarily. “We don’t want anybody else to get hurt,” one official said, emphasizing the desire for a peaceful resolution. The marshals are working to make sure Cooper’s situation is well-publicized, both to alert the public and to apply pressure on Cooper to surrender.
A Community on Edge
Racine, already grappling with issues related to gang violence, is now on high alert as the search for Floyd Cooper continues. The involvement of federal authorities like the U.S. Marshals highlights the seriousness of the case, and local residents are being urged to stay vigilant. While law enforcement remains hopeful for a peaceful outcome, the longer Cooper remains on the run, the greater the risk of another violent confrontation.
Floyd Cooper’s actions have not only endangered the lives of others but have also deepened concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement in curbing gang-related violence in the area. With his violent tendencies and access to firearms, apprehending Cooper has become a top priority for law enforcement in Wisconsin and beyond.
