A Laramie man convicted of threatening a woman with a knife was sentenced to prison Wednesday in Albany County District Court.

Judge Jeffrey Donnell sentenced 35-year-old Michael Mora to 3-5 years in prison with credit for time served.  The court found Mora guilty of possession of a deadly weapon with unlawful intent after Mora entered an Alford plea – stating that he did not admit to the act, but conceded that the prosecution could probably get a conviction if the case went to trial.

The state dismissed one count of aggravated assault – threats with a deadly weapon, but requested a prison sentence be imposed for the guilty conviction.

“Your honor, quite frankly, we’re out of ideas,” said prosecutor Rob Sanford.

Mora was arrested Sept. 3 after Laramie police responded to a domestic dispute.  According to court documents, witnesses saw Mora arguing with a woman.  Mora left the room, returned with a knife and held the knife inches from the woman’s head.

Defense attorney Candace Pisciotti requested that Mora be sentenced to probation.

“He definitely wants to be there for his children and be a part of their lives,” said Pisciotti.

Mora described battling with stress and depression since being released from prison just a few months ago.

“I wanted to be normal, you know what I mean? And that’s what I strived for when I got out,” said Mora.

Mora has had his parole revoked twice in the past.  He also faced 14 disciplinary charges while in prison, nine of them classified as ‘major,’ according to Judge Donnell.

“That’s a self-inflicted wound, Mr. Mora,” said Judge Donnell.

“I don’t doubt you want to provide for your family,” said Judge Donnell.  “When you tell me that, I believe it.  It just isn’t what you do.”

Judge Donnell ordered Mora remanded to custody pending transfer.

“I hope when you finish that you can do what you want to do and make the changes that you want to make,” said Judge Donnell.

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