Deal reached for Abbotsford man accused of attempted homicide

By Shereen Siewert | Wausau Pilot & Review

A 19-year-old man charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide will spend 15 years on probation after reaching a deal in his case, according to online court records.

Leovigildo Cruz Hernandez, of Abbotsford, was charged in February 2022, roughly two weeks after a man was stabbed outside of Perla’s Place Bar in Unity. The owner of the tavern called 911 to report the man had been stabbed and was bleeding from the stomach. Investigators discovered pools of blood in the parking lot, as well as a knife, according to court documents.

The victim was transported to Marshfield Medical Center by ambulance where he was treated for his injuries. In an interview with police, the victim said he suspected Hernandez, to whom he owed about $50 from a $600 loan made about a year prior. The two men are acquainted and are from the same hometown in Mexico, police said.

The attempted homicide charge carries a maximum 60-year prison sentence, plus an additional five years for using a dangerous weapon in the crime.

But on Thursday, Circuit Judge Suzanne O’Neill issued a withheld sentence for Hernandez with 15 years of probation. If Hernandez does not follow the rules of his supervision he could be sent to prison.

Conditions of the sentence include a caveat that Hernandez remain sober from alcohol and controlled substances. He cannot go to any bars, taverns, liquor stores or beer tents and must not have contact with the victim or possess any dangerous weapons.

A sentencing modification hearing is set for June 7. No restitution has been requested.