An Ogle County judge has found a Leaf River man not guilty by reason of insanity in connection with a stabbing of a couple which took place in July of 2011.
29-year old Michael Mitchell had been charged with 4 counts of attempted 1st degree murder and aggravated battery along with 2 counts of home invasion.
The altercation occurred on July 3rd of 2011 at 205 East 2nd Street in Leaf River, the residence of David and Denise Zellers.
Mitchell broke into the home and stabbed the couple with a knife several times. Both Zellers received treatment for their injuries at a Rockford hospital.
Police say that Mitchell earlier in the day had complained about his water to David Zellers who worked for the water department in Leaf River. He had been ruled fit to stand trial.
Judge John Redington made his ruling following a bench trial in Ogle County court. He said that Mitchell suffered from being paranoid.
Mitchell's attorney said that he was not responsible for his actions.
The Leaf River man will now have an evaluation by the Department of Human Services. Mitchell will remain in custody for the present time.
