Controversy swirling over Louisville judge's decision to slash convicted rapist's sentence

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Jefferson County judge sentenced a Louisville man to decades in prison last week after a courtroom outburst included repeated profanities and threats directed at the bench, but the final sentence still fell far short of what a jury had recommended.

Christopher Thompson, 24, was convicted of sodomy, robbery and kidnapping in December. A jury recommended a 65-year sentence, but Jefferson Circuit Judge Tracy Davis ultimately sentenced Thompson to 30 years, plus an additional four years and 120 days for multiple counts of criminal contempt stemming from his behavior during sentencing.

"Before we even get appearances, Mr. Thompson, I'm going to need you to be respectful," Davis told him.

Thompson responded with a string of obscenities and threats, at one point telling the judge to "eat a d***" and adding "If I could spit on you, I would."

The cursing and derogatory remarks continued through most of the sentencing hearing.

Despite the outbursts, Davis said her sentencing decision was based on Thompson's circumstances, not his behavior in the courtroom.

"Mr. Thompson never actually got the opportunity to get any type of treatment," Davis said, referencing mental health and anger management services. "Unfortunately, he fell through the cracks and ended up in this court."

According to court records, Thompson has a criminal history.

In 2023, he was charged with fleeing police, having a stolen gun and using restricted ammunition. Just last year, while serving time for the 2023 felony in the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections, he was caught on camera assaulting an officer. Court documents reveal Thompson placed an officer in a headlock causing abrasions to the officer's face."

The decision to impose a sentence significantly lower than the jury's recommendation has drawn criticism from some the Republican members of Louisville Metro Council, who argue it undermines the jury process and have renewed calls for greater judicial transparency.

Councilman Anthony Piagentini said Davis' ruling showed "a disdain for the jury process."

Former prosecutor and judge David Holton pushed back on that criticism Tuesday, saying sentencing decisions are rarely straightforward and should not be driven by emotion or public reaction.

"It's not all black and white," Holton said. "It's not an easy job, but I trust Judge Davis."

Holton added courtroom outbursts, while disturbing, should not influence sentencing outcomes.

"You base your sentence on the charges, not on the outburst in the courtroom," he said. "Unless you know everything about the case, people need to step back and look in the mirror."

Commonwealth's Attorney Gerina D. Whethers released a statement calling the decision a 'disappointing' sentence.

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