Knoxville — Stephen Michael Mata Visser, 28, of Knoxville, was sentenced to 15 years in prison in Marion County District Court this morning.
Visser was arrested following an incident on Sept. 13. On that date, Knoxville Police officers were called to an address just off the square for a possible assault. Shortly before midnight the same residents had called to report that a man had called and threatened to come over and fight. The later call said that the same man had shown up carrying a hammer. The suspect threatened the occupants and spit in the face of one before leaving.
Officers went to the suspect’s house and were able to locate him. The suspect was arrested for burglary and assault. The suspect would not cooperate during the arrest process and spit at officers.
Visser was charged with Burglary first degree, Going Armed with Intent, Assault on a Peace Officer, Assault while Participating in a Felony, Theft fifth degree, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with Official Acts.
Judge Terry Rickers presided over the sentencing hearing. Marion County Attorney Ed Bull commented, "Mr. Visser is a young man with an incredibly lengthy criminal history. His choice earlier this year to commit a violent crime justified a term of incarceration. We are hopeful that over the next 15 years he is able to make appropriate changes in his life to allow him to be a productive member of society. We believe that the sentence imposed by the Court sends a strong message to the community that crimes of violence will not be tolerated."
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