Outrage is growing in Oklahoma after 18-year-old Jesse Butler, accused in a string of violent sex assaults, avoided prison time under the state’s youthful offender law — sparking protests and condemnation across the state.
According to Fox News, more than a hundred demonstrators gathered outside the Payne County Courthouse on Wednesday, demanding accountability after Butler’s 78-year sentence was suspended.
“Ponca Tribal Victim Services is standing in solidarity with survivors demanding Justice! Jesse Butler needs to be held accountable! Payne County Judge Susan Worthington should be disbarred,” the organization posted on Facebook.
Butler pleaded no contest to 10 rape-related charges and one count of violating a protective order. Despite the severity of the accusations, he will remain free if he completes court-ordered rehabilitation.
Stillwater Public Schools confirmed it met with police ahead of the protests and increased security “out of an abundance of caution.”
“We condemn sexual assault and violence in all its forms,” the district said. “Our thoughts, prayers and hopes for justice are with the victims in our community and everywhere.”
Stillwater Police said they are investigating “recent phone calls and messages” concerning Butler’s enrollment and have increased patrols. Authorities confirmed Butler does not attend school in person and is barred from school property and events.
Body camera footage released this week shows the moment Butler was arrested after multiple girls accused him of brutal assaults. One victim told police Butler strangled her, and a doctor warned she could have died had it lasted “seconds longer,” according to an affidavit.
Victims’ families have condemned the outcome. “As a mom, I never thought I’d have to watch my daughter fight this kind of battle, one where she had to prove she was the victim over and over again,” one mother told KOCO. “The justice system failed her.”
Protesters also pointed to Butler’s ties to Oklahoma State University, where his father is the former director of football operations.
The Payne County District Attorney’s Office defended its decision to pursue the case under the youthful offender law, citing Butler’s age at the time of the crimes.
The office said the statute allows supervision “until the defendant’s 19th birthday” and provides “a chance for rehabilitation while still holding him accountable.”
Rep. Justin “JJ” Humphrey, R-Okla., called the ruling “unacceptable” and said he plans to petition for a grand jury review.
“If that don’t set you on fire, your wood’s wet,” Humphrey told Fox News Digital. “You’ve got a bad deal. That sets me on fire.”
Court records show Butler remains under strict supervision, including therapy, counseling, more than 100 hours of community service, daily check-ins, and curfew restrictions. He is banned from social media.
If he violates any terms, his full 78-year sentence could be reinstated. Butler’s next court hearing is scheduled for December 8.
