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Oneida Today
By the People, for the People
Oneida Officer Injured During Illegal Encampment Removal
Suspect charged with assault, weapon possession, and obstructing authorities
Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:20am
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On March 31, 2026, Oneida police officers were assisting with the removal of individuals from an illegal residential encampment when one suspect, Thomas Bettis, aggressively charged at officers while wielding a large stick. An officer deployed a Taser to subdue Bettis, who was then taken into custody along with another individual, Nicole Becraft. Bettis was charged with multiple offenses including assault, weapon possession, and obstructing government administration, while the injured officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement when addressing issues related to illegal encampments and homelessness. It underscores the need for ongoing training to ensure officers can respond appropriately to rapidly evolving threats during routine enforcement actions.
The details
According to the news release, the Oneida Police Department was assisting with the removal of individuals from an illegal residential encampment located on city property adjacent to the Oneida Rail Trail. During the operation, one suspect, Thomas Bettis, exited a makeshift tent and aggressively charged at officers while holding a large stick. Bettis proceeded to swing the stick, striking one officer multiple times. In response, another officer deployed a Taser, successfully subduing Bettis. He was then taken into custody without further incident, along with a second individual, Nicole Becraft.
- The incident occurred on March 31, 2026 at approximately 10:40 a.m.
The players
Thomas Bettis
A suspect who was charged with multiple offenses, including assault, weapon possession, and obstructing government administration, after aggressively charging at officers with a large stick during the removal of an illegal encampment.
Nicole Becraft
A second individual who was also taken into custody and charged with Obstruction in Public Places, Littering, and Trespass during the incident.
Oneida Police Department
The law enforcement agency that was assisting with the removal of the illegal encampment and responding to the incident.
What they’re saying
“This incident underscores the inherent risks our officers face, even during routine enforcement actions. It also highlights the critical importance of continual, scenario-based training to ensure our officers remain sharp, make sound decisions under pressure, and respond appropriately to rapidly evolving threats. The professionalism and preparedness demonstrated by our personnel directly contributed to bringing this dangerous situation under control safely.”
— Lowell
What’s next
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
The takeaway
This case underscores the challenges and risks faced by law enforcement when addressing issues related to illegal encampments and homelessness, and the importance of ongoing training to ensure officers can respond effectively and safely to rapidly evolving threats during routine enforcement actions.
