“The ultimate resolution of the case, reached without either victim having to testify or face cross-examination in a contested proceeding, included the accused agreeing not to challenge any of the allegations,” the statement said.

However, each of the victims’ mothers told Oklahoma Watch their daughters were willing to testify.

“The girls were brave,” Selvey said. “They found their voices and were ready to stand up, ready to face it all and tell their stories. But just when they were finally starting to take their power back, it was ripped away from them.”

Butler’s case has received widespread attention online, though Yvonne Sweeney said the family is fearful another woman will be hurt.

“It seems inevitable,” Sweeney said. “We are hoping and praying that is not the case.”