An off-duty corrections officer in Oklahoma is set to receive national recognition following his intervention in a violent encounter involving a local police officer and a suspect. The incident occurred in September 2025 in Hominy, Oklahoma, and involved a physical struggle during an arrest in which the suspect allegedly attempted to gain control of an officer’s firearm.
Recognition by National Organization
Lt. Tyler Gaines of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections has been selected to receive the Bronze Medal of Honor from One Voice United, a national organization that recognizes corrections professionals for acts of courage, service, and professionalism.
According to the organization, 94 professionals from 24 states were nominated for this year’s awards, with three individuals selected to receive Medal of Honor distinctions.
Incident Details
The recognition stems from Gaines’ actions while off duty in Hominy, Oklahoma. At the time, Gaines—then serving as a sergeant—was driving to meet family members when he observed a struggle between George Calkins and a suspect during an arrest.
According to statements attributed to Gaines, he observed that multiple TASER deployments appeared to have little effect on the suspect, leading him to believe the individual may have been under the influence of a substance.
The situation escalated when the suspect allegedly attempted to grab Officer Calkins’ firearm during the altercation.
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Use-of-Force Encounter and Intervention
Officer Calkins later described the encounter as physically overwhelming, noting the size disparity between himself and the suspect and expressing concern about his ability to maintain control of the situation.
Gaines intervened and assisted in physically restraining the suspect. According to statements provided, he helped pull the suspect’s hands away from the officer’s weapon and assisted in securing the individual in handcuffs.
Statements attributed to Officer Calkins indicate that Gaines identified himself as a corrections officer and expressed familiarity with handling similar situations in a correctional setting.
Department and Leadership Statements
Kenny Underwood stated that the intervention likely prevented the situation from escalating further.
According to Underwood, the incident had the potential to become deadly but was brought under control with Gaines’ assistance, resulting in no fatalities.
Justin Farris also issued a statement recognizing Gaines’ actions, describing the intervention as reflective of professional dedication and commitment to public safety.
Injuries and Charges
Officer Calkins sustained a broken hand during the altercation.
The suspect, identified as Benjamin Levi Walton, was booked into the Osage County Jail following the incident.
According to reported information, Walton faces multiple charges, including:
- Aggravated assault and battery on a police officer
- First-degree burglary
- Public intoxication
No further disposition of the case has been confirmed in the provided information.
About the Award Program
The One Voice United National Medal of Honor program recognizes corrections professionals who demonstrate actions beyond the scope of their duties. The Bronze Medal of Honor is among the distinctions awarded under this program.
Current Status
- Lt. Tyler Gaines has been selected to receive the Bronze Medal of Honor
- Officer George Calkins sustained a broken hand and survived the incident
- The suspect, Benjamin Levi Walton, remains charged with multiple offenses
- No additional updates regarding court proceedings or final case disposition have been confirmed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is receiving the national recognition?
Lt. Tyler Gaines of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections has been selected to receive the Bronze Medal of Honor from One Voice United.
What prompted the award?
The recognition is based on Gaines’ off-duty intervention during a September 2025 incident in Hominy, Oklahoma, where he assisted a police officer during a violent struggle involving a suspect.
What was the nature of the threat?
According to reported information, the suspect attempted to gain control of a police officer’s firearm during the altercation.
Were there any injuries?
Officer George Calkins sustained a broken hand during the encounter.
What charges does the suspect face?
The suspect, identified as Benjamin Levi Walton, faces charges including aggravated assault and battery on a police officer, first-degree burglary, and public intoxication.
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