Plea Hearing Today In Van Iten Case

The Town of Gardner man facing attempted homicide charges for allegedly stabbing his wife is scheduled to appear in Door County Court for a plea hearing Friday.

According to the criminal complaint John Van Iten, 68, told authorities he stabbed Theresa Van Iten because God told him to, saying "God spoke to him through TV and magazines" and that "things are also said to him in dreams."

The incident occurred November 1 at the couple's home on Claflin Park Road.

Van Iten entered a plea of not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect on January 9.

The attempted first degree intentional homicide charge carries a maximum penalty of 60 years in prison.

Van Iten is being held on a $2.5 million bond.