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Rape in Stillwater, Oklahoma, June 1, 2024

Two minors (identities protected), 17

Two female minors, raped and strangled by Butler. Identities protected per juvenile victim privacy rules.

Released by a judgeUS citizen
  1. Original charge
    Multiple counts of rape, sexual battery, domestic assault and battery by strangulation
    June 1, 2024
  2. Released
    Youthful Offender Act reclassification — counseling, curfews, community service, supervision until age 19 (no prison)
    December 8, 2025
  3. Before the release
    Rape
    June 1, 2024

What happened

Butler pleaded no contest to multiple counts of rape, sexual battery, and domestic assault and battery by strangulation of two female victims. Despite prosecutors seeking up to 78 years and recorded evidence of the assaults, Judge Worthington reclassified him as a youthful offender and sentenced him to probation, counseling, community service, and curfews — no prison time. Protests followed in Stillwater; a Marsy's Law motion was filed in December 2025.

The release decision

On June 1, 2024, Jesse Butler was charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual battery, domestic assault and battery by strangulation. Special Judge Susan Worthington ordered the release on December 8, 2025. Terms: youthful offender act reclassification — counseling, curfews, community service, supervision until age 19 (no prison). Prosecutors had asked for up to 78 years in prison. The defendant had 1 prior arrests at the time.

The defendant's record

Prior protective-order violation. 17 at the time of the crimes, 18 at sentencing. Son of former OSU director of football operations.

Sources