Michael Roberson
A woman who was permanently blinded by the father of her child said Thursday in court that she forgives him.
Michael Roberson, 47, pleaded guilty by reason of insanity in an appearance before Criminal Court Judge Don Poole. He will be assessed for continuing mental health treatment.
Roberson had attacked Tinesia Davenport with a knife and cut out her eyeballs. The couple said they argued over their two-year-old son. The child and several other children witnessed the gruesome attack in September 2017.
Roberson also stabbed her in the stomach.
Ms. Davenport testified, "I forgive him for what he did to our family and what he did to me. I don’t consider myself a victim -- I consider myself victorious. I'm still standing here. I hope he gets the help he needs.”
She added, "So I have to forgive. Mike I don't know if you're here or not, but may God be with you and help you get the help that you need. Your son forgives you and so do I."
Prosecutor Andrew Coyle said Ms. Davenport recalled that at the time of the incident looking at Roberson was like "looking at the face of the devil."
He said Roberson has long dealt with schizophrenia and said he has hallucinations.
At the time, Roberson said he blacked out and does not remember the attack. He said he was "at a low point" in his life.
Judge Poole commented about the Davenport testimony, "In a courtroom, I've seen more acts of forgiveness than I have ever seen in a church service, Yours is one of them, so thank you for being here and thank you for what you said. Thank you for showing us what forgiveness is all about."