BELOIT — An 18-year-old Beloit man is facing three criminal charges for allegedly stabbing a man in Janesville on Aug. 2.
Richard M. Mercadel Jr. was charged with felony first degree reckless injury and substantial battery and misdemeanor disorderly conduct with use of a dangerous weapon.
According to a criminal complaint, Mercadel was hanging out with friends at the Town Square at 21 Dodge St., where the Janesville Farmers Market is held.
An argument broke out around 5:30 p.m. between Mercadel and another man over missing money. A third man inserted himself into the dispute and Mercadel allegedly ended up stabbing the third man.
Mercadel reportedly told police that the victim pushed him onto a bench and was holding him there and he stabbed him in self defense.
The victim was treated for his wounds at a Janesville hospital.
Mercadel made his initial appearance in Rock County Circuit Court on Aug. 4. The court set a cash bond of $1,500 for his release with the provisions that he have no contact with the victim and remain sober.
Mercadel is due back in court on Aug. 11 for a preliminary hearing.
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