A Leaf River man will remain a patient in a mental health treatment facility after he was found not guilty in January by reason of insanity following the stabbing of a couple in July of 2011.
29-year old Michael Mitchell has 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 Zeller.
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 ruled following a bench trial that Mitchell suffered from being paranoid.
The Illinois Department of Human Services have completed their report on the Leaf River man. Their recommendation at this time is that he remain in the mental health facility.
A status hearing has been scheduled for April 3rd in Oregon. It may be determined at this time if Mitchell will have a trial in this case in the near future.
