CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — A Nevada man who slashed a deputy on his head has been ordered into a mental health treatment program.
The Nevada Appeal reports Judge Bill Maddox found Michael Cruz guilty of battery with a deadly weapon for the August 2017 encounter with Carson City Deputy Chris Rivera, but he suspended the four- to 10-year prison sentence Monday.
The judge ordered Cruz to attend counseling at least twice a week, noting that Cruz would likely not be rehabilitated if he was sent to prison.
The judge said that mental health officials should report Cruz to probation authorities if he does not attend counseling or take his medication.
Deputy Rivera objected to the judge's decision, saying it would effectively put Cruz back out onto the streets.
