JACKSON, Ohio – A south central Ohio law enforcement officer has been recognized for heroic actions that saved a fellow citizen from a dangerous industrial accident.
Representative Stephens and Chief Hinsch
Sergeant Thomas King of the Jackson Police Department received the department’s Life Saving Award for his response to a 911 call on December 24, 2025. King demonstrated exceptional presence of mind when he arrived at a local manufacturing facility where an employee had become trapped and was sinking in a bin of sand-like material. His quick thinking and immediate intervention prevented the worker from being pulled to the bottom of the pit and from sustaining injury when an adjacent bin risked overflowing.
The Life Saving Award is a departmental honor presented by the Jackson Police Department to officers whose direct actions in the line of duty are responsible for preserving human life or preventing serious harm in high-risk situations. It underscores the commitment of local first responders to protect the community during critical incidents.
State Representative Jason Stephens, who represents Ohio House District 93 (which includes Jackson County and parts of south central Ohio), presented King with special recognition from the Ohio House of Representatives during a ceremony at the Statehouse in Columbus. Chief Brett Hinsch of the Jackson Police Department joined the event to honor the sergeant’s service.
“On behalf of the 93rd House District of the State of Ohio, I am pleased to recognize Sgt. Thomas King,” the official commendation states. It highlights King’s “exceptional presence of mind” and notes that he “actively ensured the well-being of a fellow citizen” while earning the gratitude of the community.
Representative Stephens
This type of formal recognition from the Ohio House of Representatives is a longstanding way lawmakers commend first responders across the state for acts of bravery that go above and beyond the call of duty. Similar commendations have been issued to officers in other Ohio communities for life-saving interventions involving medical emergencies or hazardous conditions.
Sergeant King serves with the Jackson Police Department, the largest full-time law enforcement agency in Jackson County and a key protector of public safety in south central Ohio. The department routinely recognizes officers through awards that celebrate professionalism, courage and community impact.
King’s actions on Christmas Eve 2025 reflect the dedication of law enforcement professionals who often respond to unpredictable calls that require split-second decisions. In this case, community cooperation with police helped ensure a positive outcome and prevented what could have been a tragic workplace incident.
South central Ohio residents can take pride in local officers like Sergeant King who embody the values of service and readiness. The Jackson Police Department continues to demonstrate strong partnerships with area businesses, fire departments and residents to keep the region safe.
For more information on public safety initiatives in Jackson County and south central Ohio, visit the Jackson Police Department’s official page or follow local updates from the Ohio House of Representatives.
