MADISON, Wis. — A man was sentenced to 30 years in prison following a violent assault that left a University of Wisconsin-Madison student in critical condition in 2023. Brandon Thompson, 28, from Brooklyn, accepted a plea deal last year on charges including first-degree sexual assault resulting in severe bodily harm, reckless injury, and strangulation.
Thompson’s actions left the victim with devastating injuries, including a broken jaw and a brain bleed that necessitated a medically-induced coma shortly after the incident. The assault, described as one of the most heinous cases of sexual violence in recent memory, drew significant public outrage and highlighted ongoing concerns about campus safety.
During the attack, Thompson reportedly strangled the student and inflicted other severe injuries. After the incident, he allegedly attempted to mislead law enforcement by claiming he discovered the woman in the street and transported her behind a nearby home. He fled the scene before authorities arrived.
Investigators uncovered significant evidence linking Thompson to the crime, including DNA found on the victim that matched him with an extremely high probability, according to the Wisconsin State Crime Lab. This evidence played a critical role in the case against him.
The former Madison police chief characterized the incident as a “violent attack,” which resonated deeply within the community and among advocacy groups. Local prosecutors emphasized the severity of the crime, urging the community to remain vigilant about issues of sexual violence.
In addition to his prison term, Thompson will be subject to 20 years of extended supervision upon his release. This arrangement reflects the legal system’s attempt to balance punishment with potential rehabilitation, although many remain skeptical about the effectiveness of extended supervision.
The case underscores the ongoing need for resources and support for survivors of sexual violence. Organizations like the RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center in Madison provide crucial services, including a 24-hour hotline for victims seeking help. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is also available, offering support for those in need.
As communities continue to grapple with issues of safety and violence, this case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of such crimes on individuals and society as a whole. Advocacy for change and support for victims is essential in the ongoing fight against sexual violence.