Oklahoma lawmaker pleads guilty to domestic violence charges

Oklahoma state Representative Ty Burns has pleaded guilty to charges that stem from incidents of domestic violence, highlighting a serious issue within the legal and political community.

Newsweek reported that the guilty plea comes as Burns admits to one count of domestic abuse and two counts of assault following altercations involving his family in late 2024 and early 2025.

The charges against Burns relate to two specific incidents. In November 2024, Burns was involved in a violent altercation with his wife, where he allegedly attempted to gouge her eye out.

The second incident happened in April 2025 when he forced a vehicle carrying his daughter and another adult off the road, causing injuries to those involved.

Details of the Charges and Legal Proceedings

The legal repercussions for Burns include a one-year suspended sentence for each of the misdemeanor counts, to be served concurrently.

Alongside the suspended sentences, he is required to complete a batterers intervention program and partake in treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition tied to his past military service.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who prosecuted the case in place of the Pawnee County District Attorney due to a conflict of interest, emphasized the seriousness of these charges. “These are serious charges,” Drummond noted, while expressing encouragement that Burns has accepted responsibility and will undergo counseling.

Burns’ history as a veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan was acknowledged in relation to his PTSD treatment. Nevertheless, these service experiences do not excuse his conduct, according to legal authorities.

Upon pleading guilty, Burns has faced significant pressure to resign from his legislative seat, a position he has held since November 2018. Although Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and other officials have made public calls for his resignation, Burns plans to remain in office.

“Representative Burns and his family are in my prayers,” Governor Stitt commented. However, he emphasized, “at this time I urge him to step down from his position in the legislature,” underscoring the gravity of domestic violence and its ramifications for public officials.

Burns announced his decision to step down from certain legislative roles, specifically his position as chair of the Appropriations and Budget Finance Subcommittee, as he seeks to prioritize his health and family.

Burns’ Personal Admission and Ongoing Treatment

Addressing his actions, Burns publicly acknowledged, “I take full responsibility for my actions.” He highlighted his commitment to his batterers intervention program and his ongoing treatment for PTSD, noting the importance of addressing his past experiences through healthier means.

Burns expressed regret over the incidents, stating, “I know I must do better for myself and my family,” acknowledging the impact of his actions and his preparedness to face the consequences.

While Burns remains determined to continue serving his constituents, he underscored his immediate focus on rehabilitation and family, thereby stepping away from specific responsibilities in the Oklahoma Legislature.

Domestic violence remains an ongoing concern in Oklahoma, as emphasized by both government officials and legal entities. Drummond reiterated, “Domestic violence is tragically all too common in our state. It must stop.”

The Republican House Speaker, Kyle Hilbert, also commented on the issue, reinforcing the stance against domestic violence and acknowledging Burns’ acceptance of responsibility.

Bearing in mind the significance of public trust and duty, officials continue to advocate for accountability and transparency, ensuring that such behavior is neither overlooked nor tolerated in any setting, particularly among those elected to serve the people.