Sofia, Bulgaria – A 36-year-old man who attacked his wife with a mock knife, inflicting severe injuries, has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. However, following an agreement with the prosecutor’s office, he will serve five years behind bars.
The incident occurred on November 4 last year in a residential apartment in Sofia, where the perpetrator, identified as Z.T., slashed his wife’s face and limbs, causing significant bodily harm.
The victim suffered four moderate injuries, including disfigurement, muscle damage, and permanent difficulty in moving her right arm and leg. Heavy blood loss also put her life in temporary danger. Medical professionals had to administer 58 surgical stitches to treat her wounds.
According to court documents, the attack was carried out under conditions of domestic violence and in an exceptionally cruel and painful manner.
Expert medical reports and witness statements provided damning evidence against Z.T., confirming his role as the assailant. Despite having no prior criminal record, he was immediately detained following the assault.
The investigation into the case concluded within three months, leading to the filing of an indictment against Z.T. The Sofia District Court found him guilty and handed down an effective prison sentence.
Due to a shortened trial procedure, which allows for reduced sentences in cases where the defendant pleads guilty or does not contest the charges, his original 7.5-year sentence was lowered to five years.
Legal experts have noted that the case underscores the severity with which the Bulgarian judicial system is beginning to treat domestic violence incidents.
Recent legal reforms and growing public pressure have pushed authorities to take a firmer stance on such cases, particularly those involving extreme brutality.
While the ruling provides a measure of justice for the victim, it is not yet final. Z.T. retains the right to appeal the decision before the Sofia City Court, which could potentially modify the sentence.
The case has reignited discussions about domestic violence in Bulgaria, a country where activists continue to call for stricter measures and better protection for victims.
Women’s rights organizations argue that more needs to be done to prevent such attacks and support survivors through legal and social services.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the victim continues to recover from both the physical and emotional scars left by the assault.
Authorities urge anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help and report incidents to law enforcement, emphasizing that such crimes will not go unpunished.
The upcoming appeal process will determine whether the sentence remains unchanged or is subject to further revision by the Sofia City Court.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members