A Dowagiac man who attacked his girlfriend with a butter knife before attempting to burn down their apartment will spend time in jail for his assault.

Judge Michael Dodge sentenced 42-year-old Kevin Russell Mears to 365 days in Cass County Jail during his appearance in court Friday, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, domestic violence and arson of property under $200. Mears pleaded guilty to the offenses on Sept. 23.

According to the judge, Mears committed the crimes while arguing with his girlfriend, Patricia Wirick, on May 22 at their apartment on Cleveland Street. After Mears cut Wirick with a butter knife, the fight escalated, with Mears eventually grabbing Wirick around the neck.

“Finally, you attempted to set fire to her apartment when you set some clothes on fire,” Dodge said to the defendant Friday.

Assistant Prosecutor Kirk Metzger described the case as “very unusual” in his statement to the court, saying Mears’ strange and assaultive behavior that evening was a sign of a dysfunctional and codependent relationship with Wirick.

“You add into the mix that Mears has a longstanding issue with alcohol and drugs, it is leading him down a very unproductive and dangerous road,” Metzger said.

While the prosecutor said Mears has indicated he recognizes his problems that contributed to his crimes, Metzger requested the judge grant the one-year jail term, per a plea agreement the prosecutor’s office worked out with the defendant.

Mears’ attorney, Gregory Feldman, also told the judge his client has come to terms with the fact he is an addict, and that — with several prior felonies and misdemeanors on his record at 42 years old — he is ready to turn his life around.

“I urged him that, when he gets out, to start working a program, start going to somebody who can get him some help, so that he can go on the straight and narrow,” Feldman said.

Mears also addressed the court Friday, apologizing for his actions.

Mears was given 180 days credit for time already served.

Also sentenced Friday:

• Roy Lee Fee V, 31, of Vandalia, to 365 days in jail for failure to comply with reporting duties as a sex offender.

• Adrian Eugene Neily Jr., 18, of Cassopolis, to a minimum of two years to a maximum of 10 years in prison for assault with intent to commit great bodily harm less than murder.

• Michael Gene Peffley, 32, of Niles, to 365 days in jail for drug-related charges.

• Justin Wayne McNew, 21, of Dowagiac, to two years probation for carrying a concealed weapon.

• Garry Duane Means, 53, to 365 days in jail for receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle and possession of marijuana.