Judge sentences rapist to probation—after jury demanded 13 years in prison

TULSA, Okla. — Last month a jury convicted an Oklahoma man of first-degree rape and requested a 13-year prison sentence. However, instead of serving time in prison, Maliik Vance walked free with just probation after the judge overruled the jury on the sentencing decision. News on 6 reported that Tulsa County DA Steve Kunzweiler has no appeal—and he not happy with the judge’s sentencing. “It sends a terrible message to victims out there and especially this particular victim after all she had been through,” Kunzweiler said. Kunzweiler explained how testifying is hard enough for victims. And that the judge’s decision to let Vance walk with only probation and no prison time, is a step in the wrong direction. -- More...