A Winnipeg man who stabbed his victim in the neck, chest and face -- blinding him in one eye -- has been sentenced to 30 months in prison.
Eugene Johnson, 30, broke down in tears Wednesday after his plea for a conditional sentence to be served in the community was rejected.
"What about our baby? I can't do this alone," his girlfriend wailed as sheriff's officers led Johnson away to begin serving his penalty.
Queen's Bench Justice John Scurfield said he couldn't overlook the brutality of the 2003 stabbing, which left the victim suffering long-term injuries.
Johnson has a prior criminal record including several bail breaches, the judge was told.
Johnson claimed to have attacked the victim in self-defence during a house party because he feared the man was going to assault him. The victim has a prior record of violence and had previously beaten Johnson and his brother.
"You can't bring a knife to a fist fight," Scurfield said. "There was no justification for launching such a vicious attack with a knife."
The Crown was seeking up to three years in prison for Johnson. The man has been working full-time and has strong family and community support, the judge was told.
Scurfield said there is far too much violence in Winnipeg -- especially involving knives -- and sentences must reflect a strong message of deterrence.
Outside court, Johnson's family said they would appeal.
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