A newly released police body-camera video has reignited anger over an Oklahoma teen assault case that ended without jail time. The footage captures officers calmly arresting 17-year-old Jesse Butler, who later pleaded no contest to serious felony charges. His offenses included attempted first-degree rape, assault by strangulation, and sexual battery.
Butler received a 78-year sentence that was fully suspended under Oklahoma’s youthful-offender statute. This controversial decision means he can avoid prison if he complies with rehabilitation requirements. Families of the victims have condemned the ruling, calling it a failure of the justice system. One mother said the courts “made excuses for the person who hurt her daughter.”
The video, released by Stillwater Police, shows officers arriving at a family home to serve Butler’s arrest warrant. His mother opened the door and told officers, “We’re ready to tell our story too,” before calling her son to come out. Butler appeared calm and tearful as police informed him of the warrant and the arrest procedure.
An officer explained, “We are going to place you under arrest, there’s a warrant for your arrest. I do have to put you in handcuffs, so turn around for me.” His mother asked, “You have to put him in handcuffs?” The officer replied gently, assuring that the process was standard and brief.
Throughout the teen assault case video, Butler’s mother offered reassurance. She told her son that family members were already taking steps to help him. “Stay strong. Say your prayers,” she said as officers led him away.
The arrest remained calm, with officers avoiding confrontation and using careful communication. Body-cam footage showed them escorting Butler to a patrol car while his mother called the experience “awful for a child.” She added, “See you in a bit,” before he was taken away.
Public outrage has continued since Butler’s sentencing. Many argue that the teen assault case exposes deep flaws in Oklahoma’s youthful-offender system. Critics say the suspended sentence sends a dangerous message about accountability in violent sexual assault cases involving minors.
