Two Charged Following Burglary at Oklahoma Wesleyan
Bartlesville authorities charged Eric Goings and Araiya Smith after a burglary at the university's sports center.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Property Crime
Eric Goings, 57, and Araiya Smith, 25, face charges of second-degree burglary following an incident at the Oklahoma Wesleyan University Mueller Sports Center. Both individuals were identified by video footage before authorities filed charges on October 19.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to address property crime within campus facilities. The suspects remain subject to legal proceedings as the court prepares for their upcoming hearing.
Eric Goings and Araiya Smith face second-degree burglary charges with a $10,000 bond set for each. Goings faces additional counts including possession of 1.3 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
The players
Eric Goings
The 57-year-old suspect faces multiple charges including second-degree burglary and possession of controlled substances.
Araiya Smith
The 25-year-old suspect is charged with second-degree burglary in connection with the university incident.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
This private Christian university located in Bartlesville serves as the primary site of the alleged burglary.
The details
Authorities allege the pair entered the Mueller Sports Center at 9 p.m. and removed five pairs of basketball shoes, a black bag, and a gray hoodie. A subsequent traffic stop led to the recovery of these items and the discovery of controlled substances.
Timeline
The burglary at Oklahoma Wesleyan University occurred on October 10, 2026.
Charges were officially filed against the two individuals on October 19, 2026.
A court appearance for Goings and Smith is scheduled for October 30, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows established judicial protocols for prosecuting property crime under Oklahoma's second-degree burglary statute. Such prosecutions remain a standard mechanism for addressing unauthorized campus entries in the jurisdiction.
The incident highlights the importance of campus security measures and vigilance at university facilities. Residents and students should remain aware of local safety advisories as the legal process for these individuals proceeds.
The takeaway
Maintaining secured facilities is essential for preventing the theft of equipment from public and private athletic centers. Individuals should always report suspicious activity on or near campus grounds to local authorities immediately.
What happens next
Goings and Smith are scheduled to appear in court on October 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local investigations, visit Property Crime.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KWON KYFM KRIG KPGM.
