A Massachusetts jury has found Rorie Susan Woods guilty after she allegedly used a swarm of honeybees as a weapon against law enforcement officers attempting to carry out an eviction order.
The verdict, delivered on April 17, 2026, includes four counts of simple assault and battery along with two counts of reckless assault, stemming from a chaotic incident that left multiple deputies injured.
Bee Attack During Eviction Turns Violent
The unusual case dates back to October 12, 2022, when deputies from the **Hampden County Sheriff’s Office were executing an eviction. According to authorities, Woods arrived at the property driving an SUV towing a trailer filled with active beehives.
Video evidence presented in court showed Woods confronting officers before forcefully opening one of the hives. She reportedly smashed the lid and tipped a hive off the trailer, triggering a sudden swarm of agitated bees.
The situation quickly escalated as the insects began attacking everyone nearby, including deputies and bystanders.
Deputies Injured as Bees Swarm the Scene
Officials said several law enforcement personnel were stung multiple times, with at least one individual requiring hospital treatment after being attacked on the face and head.
During the incident, Woods allegedly made alarming remarks when informed that some deputies were allergic to bee stings. Authorities reported that she responded dismissively, further intensifying concerns about her intent.
She later put on a beekeeper’s protective suit and continued handling the hives, reportedly attempting to increase the bees’ aggression before officers subdued and arrested her.
Not Connected to Eviction Case
Investigators confirmed that Woods had no personal connection to the tenant being evicted. However, she had a history of protesting eviction actions in the Boston area, which may have influenced her presence at the scene.
Despite her arrest, reports indicate she returned to the property the following day to continue protesting peacefully after posting bail.
Legal Outcome and Sentencing
After initially fleeing to Tennessee and refusing to return voluntarily, Woods was brought back to Massachusetts under a governor’s warrant.
The court sentenced her to six months in jail, with credit given for 148 days already served.
Impact of the Incident
Beyond injuries to law enforcement, the incident also resulted in the deaths of thousands of bees, raising additional concerns about animal welfare and public safety.
Authorities say the case highlights the dangers of weaponizing unconventional elements during confrontations with law enforcement and reinforces the importance of maintaining safety during eviction proceedings.
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