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LISBON -- An East Liverpool man charged with stabbing two people at his apartment complex in 2016 faces a maximum of nine years in prison when he is sentenced for the crimes.
Boyd W. Johnson, 54, of Moore Street, appeared in county Common Pleas Court Friday, where county Assistant Prosecutor Megan Bickerton recommended the nine-year sentence, noting that while Johnson has no prior felony offenses, he does have a history of violence.
"The facts in this case are very disturbing," Bickerton told Judge Scott Washam. "The defendant was basically terrorizing the apartment complex on that evening."
Johnson had to be physically subdued by East Liverpool police responding to the burglary report that night that began when Johnson entered the Moore Street apartment of Anthony Williams and threatened him with a knife before heading on to the apartment of David and Pamela Muha.
At the Muhas', Johnson attempted to force open the door, and once inside attacked them both, stabbing Mr. Muha in the abdomen and throwing him to the ground.
The Muhas were both hospitalized for their injuries and Bickerton said that Mr. Muha is still suffering from the attack -- both physically and emotionally.
"This is a very traumatic experience," she said.
That the attack inflicted both physical and emotional pain on the Muhas was also reiterated by a friend and neighbor, retired attorney Gary Barringer, who spoke on their behalf during what was scheduled to be Johnson's sentencing hearing.
The Muhas were both present at the hearing.
"Mr. Muha has had six operations and more are expected. He cannot walk but short distances. He cannot drive or operate a motor vehicle," Barringer said.
He added that Mr. Muha is now on disability as a result of the injuries.
"It is ironic, because he was supposed to appear the next day for a job," he said.
He went on to say that, in addition, Mr. Muha has suffered through infections in his abdomen and lungs and was facing the possibility of being put on dialysis, although that was later not necessary.
The attack has also left Mr. Muha with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, nightmares, and hallucinations, Barringer said.
"His life has been ruined. His health has been destroyed. We ask for a maximum sentence," he added.
Bickerton requested the nine-year total prison term on the two counts of felonious assault, both second-degree felonies, and two counts of aggravated burglary, both first-degree felonies.
Johnson's attorney, Kelly Linger, asked that his sentencing be rescheduled since a witness they wanted to speak on his behalf could not be present that day.
Washam granted that request and rescheduled the sentencing for June 25, although he allowed Barringer and Bickerton to present their side on Friday so as not to require the Muhas to have to come back later.
"They are anxious for a resolution," Washam said of the couple.
Johnson was also given an opportunity to speak, but did not offer any statements.
kwhite@mojonews.com