10/21/2026
Arrest Notification:
On October 10, 2026, officers with the Portland Police Department responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in progress involving a male subject who was allegedly armed with a knife and attempting to force entry into a residence.
The complainant reported that her former boyfriend, identified as Walter Hayes (pictured below), was at the front door of her residence armed with a knife and attempting to gain entry by repeatedly kicking the door. Fearing for her safety and that of her infant child, the victim had secured herself and her child inside a bathroom while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement.
Upon arrival, officers determined that Mr. Hayes had fled the scene prior to their arrival. After ensuring the victim and her infant child were safe, officers searched the surrounding area but were unable to locate him.
During the subsequent investigation, officers discovered that Mr. Hayes had allegedly removed and disabled the residence's doorbell security camera. Investigators also determined that the front door handle had been broken off during his attempts to force entry into the residence.
Due to the seriousness of the incident and the safety concerns involved, officers remained on scene while the victim gathered her personal belongings. Officers then escorted the victim and her infant child to a safe location.
Officers subsequently established telephone contact with Mr. Hayes; however, he reportedly refused to cooperate with the investigation.
Based on the evidence gathered, officers obtained arrest warrants charging Walter Hayes with the following offenses:
Aggravated Assault (Domestic Related)
Criminal Attempt to Commit Aggravated Burglary
Vandalism Under $1,000
On October 14, 2026, Mr. Hayes was taken into custody and served with the outstanding arrest warrants. He was ultimately released on a $40,000 bond.
Mr. Hayes's initial court appearance is scheduled for October 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Sumner County General Sessions Court.
The Portland Police Department takes incidents of domestic violence seriously and remains committed to protecting victims, holding offenders accountable through the judicial process, and ensuring that individuals experiencing domestic violence have access to appropriate assistance and resources.
We encourage anyone experiencing domestic violence or who believes they are in immediate danger to contact law enforcement. No one should have to live in fear for their safety or the safety of their children.
The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
