UTICA, NY — A 24-year-old man is facing charges after allegedly biting and head-butting a police officer during a mental health call.
Utica police were dispatched to 1543 Oneida St. at approximately 5:30 a.m. on January 19, 2026, regarding an emotionally disturbed person who may have ingested pills.
Upon arrival, officers were directed to the individual and began speaking with him.
The man began physically pushing officers as they attempted to detain him for a mental health transport, according to police.
The man then bit one officer’s arm, police said.
After officers freed themselves from the bite, the man head-butted an officer in the side of the face, according to police.
Officers deployed a Taser to gain compliance and secured the man in handcuffs before transporting him to Wynn Hospital.
The injured officer was also transported to Wynn Hospital and treated for a deep, extensive bite wound.
Malachi Robinson, 24, of Utica, was held for a mental health evaluation.
Upon his release, Robinson was transported to the Utica Police Department and charged with assault in the second degree.
