UI Prof Admits Stabbing Student At Bar

A University of Idaho professor has pleaded guilty to stabbing a student at a Moscow bar.

J. Willard L’Hote, 50, entered the plea Wednesday along with a proposed agreement that, if accepted, would keep him out of prison and erase the felony from his record if he avoids trouble during probation.

He also would be required to pay restitution to his victim, Jose Luis Palacios, 25.

L’Hote stabbed Palacios, a math major, at John’s Alley bar on Feb. 24. Palacios testified he was talking to a woman when L’Hote approached them, pushed Palacios and began talking to her.

When Palacios told L’Hote not to push him, L’Hote pulled out a pocket knife and stabbed him in the abdomen, the student said. He was treated and released.

The latest action is similar to a plea bargain L’Hote received in 1977 for an assault charge after brandishing a gun in a Moscow apartment. He received 11 months probation.