FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 17, 2026)– Attorney General Russell Coleman announced today he appealed the Jefferson Circuit Court Judge’s sentence for Christopher Thompson, 24, to the Kentucky Supreme Court. Earlier this month, the trial court judge slashed the jury’s 65-year sentence in half following Thompson’s conviction for robbery, kidnapping and sex crimes. Attorney General Coleman argues that the judge’s sentence is an unlawful abuse of judicial discretion.
“In our system of justice, we respect the jury’s voice as representatives of the community,” said Attorney General Coleman. “Unfortunately, the trial judge disregarded the jury’s recommendation and gave a sentence that does not at all reflect the gravity of the crimes or the harms to the victim and her family. Together with Jefferson County’s elected felony prosecutor, Gerina Whethers, we are appealing this sentence to give this family the justice the jury recommended, and they deserve.”
Kentucky’s Marsy’s Law provides victims of crime certain rights, including having their safety and protection considered throughout the process. These rights should be equal to the defendant’s.
Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerina D. Whethers’ Office prosecuted Thompson and agreed with the jury’s recommended 65-year sentence. Thompson was found guilty of Robbery First Degree (Class B Felony), Kidnapping (Class B Felony), two counts of Sodomy First Degree (Class B Felony) and Sexual Abuse First Degree (Class D Felony).
“It is never easy to revisit a legal outcome. However, when a victim and their family express continued concern, we have a responsibility to listen — and to act within the bounds of the law. Our role as ministers of justice is not simply to prosecute cases, but to stand with victims and ensure their voices are heard. This is not about personal disagreement; it is about fulfilling our obligation to pursue fairness, safety, and accountability for those who have been harmed,” explained Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerina D. Whethers. “We have met with the victim and the family in this matter. They have made clear their desire to move forward with further legal action, and we respect their wishes. Their strength and courage deserve our continued effort. We owe it to them — and to the community we serve — to carefully examine every available option and pursue the best possible outcome. That commitment remains unwavering.”
Throughout the trial and sentencing, Thompson threatened the female prosecutor in open court and screamed expletives at the female judge. His actions led to more than four-and-a-half years of additional incarceration for criminal contempt.
Thompson is also currently awaiting trial for allegedly assaulting a Louisville Corrections Officer.