Fargo Woman Gets 10 Years in Hatchet Attack

Fargo (trfnews.i234.me) — A Fargo woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after a hatchet attack on her boyfriend.

Lena Deoliveira pleaded guilty Friday to aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon.

The charge was reduced from attempted murder as part of a plea agreement.

A second charge was dismissed under the agreement.

Deoliveira received a 10-year sentence, with seven years to be served.

She will receive credit for 381 days already spent in custody.

State and Defense Backed Same Sentence

Prosecutors recommended the 10-year sentence with seven years to serve.

Deoliveira’s defense attorney also supported that recommendation.

Prosecutors said the victim did not want to continue with an attempted murder charge.

The victim also did not seek restitution, according to the court proceedings.

The judge imposed the sentence recommended by both sides.

Deoliveira’s defense said she struggled with drug use and mental health issues before the attack.

The defense said she has made progress in recovery since her arrest.

Her attorney also described her as remorseful.

After prison, Deoliveira will serve three years of supervised probation.

She must continue mental health and substance-use treatment follow-ups.

Deoliveira was arrested in September 2025 following the attack.

Fargo police said she struck her boyfriend in the head with a hatchet.

Authorities said he was sleeping when the attack happened.

The victim suffered severe injuries and required surgery.

The case later moved forward under the amended aggravated assault charge.

Additional court information may be available through the North Dakota Court System.

Information about local public safety services is available from the Fargo Police Department.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.

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