An Oklahoma teenager, Jesse Mack Butler, 17, accused of sexually assaulting and strangling two high school girls, has been released without serving any jail time. This decision has triggered nationwide outrage as the victims’ families plan to take legal action.
Rachel Bassett, the attorney for the victims’ families, mentioned that they are preparing for civil litigation. Initially charged as an adult with serious crimes including attempted first-degree rape and sexual assault, Butler later pleaded no contest to all 11 charges after being classified as a juvenile. In August 2025, instead of prison, he was put under juvenile supervision and required to complete a rehabilitation program. However, upon turning 19 on August 4, the court’s jurisdiction lapsed, leading to the case being dismissed.
Bassett expressed that the families are devastated but, unfortunately, not surprised by the outcome. They had anticipated that things would unfold this way. Following this, there might be fresh scrutiny from federal authorities as the family gears up for a civil lawsuit. Bassett indicated that there is ongoing review regarding potentially illicit materials found on Butler’s phone, which could qualify as child sexual abuse material.
“I know it sounds like a long shot, but I’m hopeful,” Bassett said about the prospects of federal action. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice has been contacted for more information about the situation.
Bassett criticized the treatment her client received during previous legal dealings, describing a previous interaction with the former district attorney as more like an attack than a defense. She emphasized that survivors often face disbelief and additional assaults from the very system meant to support them.
Newly elected district attorney Jeremiah Gregory has condemned the defense’s portrayal of Butler as a victim. He remarked that such assertions during the hearings were both misleading and disrespectful to the actual victims. Gregory, who mentioned feeling furious about the case, noted that constitutional double jeopardy laws prevent Oklahoma from pursuing further prosecution, although he is soliciting a review from federal agencies.
“We may not be able to change the past, but we’ll always advocate for victims of violent crime,” he added.
