A judge ordered an April 2026 hearing after victims challenged Jesse Butler’s youthful offender sentence for raping two teens, citing violations of their rights under Oklahoma’s Marsy’s Law.

A Payne County judge has scheduled an April 13, 2026, evidentiary hearing in Stillwater, Oklahoma, after victims’ attorneys challenged the youthful offender sentencing of Jesse Butler, convicted of raping two high school students. The victims argued the decision violated their rights under Oklahoma’s Marsy’s Law, which ensures victims’ rights to notice, consultation, and fair treatment. The judge found sufficient factual disputes to require live testimony and evidence, focusing on whether victims were properly informed and involved before the plea deal and sentencing. Butler, who pleaded no contest and received counseling and supervision instead of prison, faces renewed legal scrutiny amid public concern over victims’ rights and the use of youthful offender statutes in serious sexual assault cases.