A 30-year-old St. Joseph man pleaded guilty this week to what a prosecutor described as a “horrible” domestic assault. But if Anthony Hanner successfully completes a 120-day drug treatment program, he could be granted probation.

The victim suffered serious injuries in the assault April 14, including a fractured jaw, broken ribs and a fractured eye socket. In court Thursday Hanner admitted knocking her unconscious, and then punching her in the head at least four times.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kristina Zeit said Hanner blames the victim for the incident, and says she is terrified he might return.

“I’m not blaming her at all,” Hanner told the judge. “I take full responsibility. I love her. I’m sorry.”

Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg found Hanner guilty of 3rd degree domestic assault, a class-e felony. Kellogg sentenced Hanner to the maximum sentence of four years in the Dept. of Corrections, but retains jurisdiction in the case for 120 days.

Under a Missouri statute, Hanner will take part in an institutional drug-treatment program and a domestic violence assessment, and could be granted probation within that 120-day period.