Oklahoma finds itself at the heart of a growing controversy as protests mount over a recent court decision involving a teenager accused of multiple violent sexual assaults. Public outrage has surged following the case’s outcome, where the accused avoided imprisonment, sparking demonstrations and raising questions about the judicial process.

On Wednesday, over a hundred protesters converged at the Payne County Courthouse, demanding justice for the victims. Armed with signs, the crowd voiced their dissatisfaction with the ruling that allowed 18-year-old Jesse Butler to sidestep prison time under Oklahoma’s youthful offender law, as reported by The Oklahoman.

The Ponca Tribal Victim Services organization joined the chorus of disapproval, expressing solidarity with the survivors. In a Facebook post, they declared, “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.”

This wave of protests follows widespread anger both online and within the community since Butler, who entered a no-contest plea to several sex assault charges, was handed a 78-year sentence, which was suspended. This decision permits him to remain free, contingent on completing a court-mandated rehabilitation program.

In anticipation of the public’s reaction, Stillwater Public Schools’ spokesperson revealed to Fox News Digital that they collaborated with local police last week to prepare for potential demonstrations. They designated specific zones for protesters and media while enhancing security measures by deploying additional officers on campus, exercising caution amid the heightened tensions.

“We condemn sexual assault and violence in all its forms,” the school district shared in a statement. “Our thoughts, prayers and hopes for justice are with the victims in our community and everywhere.”

The Stillwater Police Department said in a release it is working with Stillwater Public Schools to investigate “recent phone calls and messages to the district regarding the enrollment of student Jesse Butler.”

“While the language used in the phone calls and messages are vague and not directed at specific school sites, students or staff, all concerning communications and any potential threats are taken seriously and investigated fully,” the department wrote.

Authorities said additional patrols have been added out of an abundance of caution. Butler, who was previously a Stillwater student, does not attend in person and is barred from school property and events, police confirmed.

A newly released body camera video shows the moment Butler was arrested last year, part of an investigation that began after multiple girls accused him of brutal sexual assaults.

Then 17, Butler pleaded no contest to 10 rape-related charges and one count of violating a protective order.

Although he received a 78-year sentence, the term was suspended under Oklahoma’s youthful offender law, allowing him to remain free if he meets strict rehabilitation terms.

Victims’ families and community members have condemned the outcome. Some protesters on Wednesday held signs noting Butler’s connection to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, where his father is the former director of football operations.

“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.”

One victim said Butler strangled her, and a doctor warned that she could have died had it lasted “seconds longer,” according to a police affidavit reviewed by Fox News Digital.

The Payne County District Attorney’s Office said the decision to pursue the case under the youthful offender law was based on Butler’s age at the time of the crimes. The office said the law allows supervision “until the defendant’s 19th birthday” and gives 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 previously told Fox News Digital. “You know what I mean? You’ve got a bad deal. That sets me on fire.”

Court documents show Butler remains under Office of Juvenile Affairs supervision, required to complete therapy, counseling, more than 100 hours of community service, daily check-ins and weekly sessions. He’s banned from social media and subject to curfew restrictions.

If Butler violates any terms, the court could enforce his full 78-year sentence. His next hearing is scheduled for Dec. 8 in Payne County District Court.