A federal jury has found Joseph Francis Butler, 34, from Illinois, guilty of aggravated sexual abuse at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City. This announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The charges against Butler were brought forward on July 17, 2024, by a federal Grand Jury. Following a four-day trial that concluded on March 14, 2025, Butler was convicted of the crime. Evidence presented during the trial showed that on June 4, 2023, Butler entered another inmate's cell and committed the assault while holding a shank to the victim's neck and side. The victim reported the incident to a corrections officer shortly after it occurred.
Butler could face a life sentence in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 when sentenced.
The investigation leading to this conviction was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Edgmon and Brandon Hale are handling the prosecution.
For more information, reference can be made to public filings.