Oneida Woman Assaults Officers Following DUI Traffic Stop

Oneida, TN (2011-02-02) An Oneida woman faces felony drug and assault charges following an altercation with police, after authorities stopped her for driving impaired.

Lisa M. Bell, 38, of Oneida was detained Wednesday evening by the Oneida Police Department following an investigation into a traffic accident late Wednesday afternoon in Helenwood. She has been charged with DUI, possession of a schedule II controlled substance (Oxycodone), assault on an officer (four counts), driving without a license, reckless endangerment, vandalism of under $500, and violation of the implied consent law.

According to an arrest warrant filed by Cpl. Gerry “Greasey” Garrett of the Oneida Police Department, what began as an investigation into a minor traffic accident led to a DUI traffic stop and ultimately an altercation between the suspect and police. In the warrant, authorities allege Bell was the driver of a 1994 S-10 Chevy pickup, which was involved in a single vehicle traffic crash in the Helenwood community earlier Wednesday evening; a wreck that reportedly resulted in minor property damage. Upon investigation, authorities located the owner; however, Bell, who was related to the owner, reportedly had taken the vehicle earlier in the day. As Garrett was leaving, he allegedly observed the vehicle coming toward him on Chester Street. As the vehicle approached, Garrett claimed it was traveling on the wrong side of the road and had to swerve to avoid hitting his patrol car. Garrett returned to the home, where he allegedly observed Bell behind the wheel, and a small, unrestrained child in the back seat. A third person, later identified as Bell’s mother, Linda Harris, was also observed sleeping in the passenger seat.

As he approached the vehicle, Garrett claimed Bell was unsteady on her feet, and smelled of an intoxicating beverage. She would later tell authorities she had consumed 20 beers and had snorted the powerful painkiller, Oxycodone. After failing a field sobriety test, Bell was arrested and transported to Oneida City Hall.

Outside the facility, Bell allegedly became belligerent, cursing at officers. Once inside, she reportedly scuffled with police, kicking one officer in the groin, while striking two others in the stomach and a third officer’s hand. In the process, she reportedly attempted to turn over an office desk and destroyed a telephone. Unable to book her, authorities shackled Bell and immediately transported her to the Scott County Jail.

The following day, authorities arrested Bell’s mother, who they claim was also impaired, charging her with DUI by allowing and allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a motor vehicle.