2 Lifetimes of Prison for 1 Heinous Crime: Michael Butler’s 8 Consecutive Life Sentences for Sexually Assaulting 2 Teens

The ordeal began when Butler kidnapped two 17-year-old girls outside a Walgreens, forcing them into their car at gunpoint before sexually assaulting them. He then fled to Georgia in their vehicle, allegedly committing further crimes including armed robbery and home invasion. During the abduction, Butler terrorized his victims, claiming their names were inscribed on the bullets in his gun, expressing a chilling desire to become a notorious figure in the annals of serial killers.

Authorities apprehended Butler after a high-speed pursuit ended in a crash, leading to his capture by Leeds Police Department officers. His arrest brought relief but also highlighted failures in the criminal justice system, with Butler having been released early from a previous prison term without required monitoring. The sentencing brought closure for the victims, one of whom defiantly declared to Butler during the hearing, “You have no power over me,” echoing a sentiment of strength and resilience in the face of unspeakable trauma.