In Oklahoma, there’s been a significant backlash after a teenager, Jesse Butler, was accused of several violent sexual assaults but avoided prison. This situation has sparked protests outside the Payne County Courthouse as the handling of the case is increasingly scrutinized.
Reports indicate that over 100 individuals gathered on Wednesday, holding signs that called for justice after Butler, 18, received a 78-year suspended sentence under the state’s Youthful Offenders Act. The Oklahoman provided coverage on the developments.
A spokesperson for the Ponca Tribal Victim Services expressed their support for the survivors on social media, stating that Butler should be held accountable and calling for the removal of Judge Susan Worthington.
The protests arose after Butler entered a no contest plea to multiple sexual assault charges yet was sentenced to a suspended term, enabling him to avoid prison if he meets rehabilitation requirements.
In response to the situation, a representative from Stillwater Public Schools shared that faculty discussed potential protests with police last week and took steps to ensure safety, including increased security on campus “out of an abundance of caution.”
The district emphasized its condemnation of all forms of sexual violence, sharing thoughts and hopes for justice for all affected communities and victims.
Officials from Stillwater Police announced that they are collaborating with the school to look into disturbing calls and messages concerning Butler’s enrollment, stating that while the language was vague, every communication would be thoroughly assessed.
Out of caution, extra patrols have been added, and it was confirmed that Butler, who used to be a student at Stillwater, is banned from school grounds and related events.
Recently released video footage captured Butler’s arrest, part of an investigation initiated after several young girls accused him of severe sexual assault.
At the time of the crimes, Butler was 17 and pleaded no contest to ten assault-related charges alongside a charge for breaching a protection order. Instead of serving time, his sentence was suspended under the Youth Offenders Act, allowing him to remain out of prison if he adheres to strict rehabilitation guidelines.
Families of the victims, along with local residents, have voiced their outrage over the sentence. Some protestors highlighted Butler’s connections to Oklahoma State University, where his father served as director of football operations.
One mother shared her distress, stating she never imagined her daughter would have to endure a struggle to be recognized as a victim repeatedly. She felt the justice system had failed her.
In a police affidavit, one victim recounted that Butler had strangled her, with a doctor indicating it could have been fatal had it continued for a few seconds longer.
The Payne County District Attorney’s Office explained that the decision to pursue the case under the Youth Offender Act was based on Butler’s age during the incidents, which permits supervision until he turns 19 while offering chances for rehabilitation.
State Representative Justin “JJ” Humphrey criticized the ruling as “unacceptable,” expressing intentions to seek grand jury scrutiny, and emphasized that the public’s reaction was warranted.
Butler is currently under the Juvenile Bureau’s supervision, required to complete therapy and counseling, perform over 100 hours of community service, and attend weekly sessions. He is also prohibited from using social media and must stick to a curfew.
If he fails to meet any of these conditions, the court may enforce the full 78-year sentence. A hearing is set to occur on December 8 in Payne County District Court.
