3.5-Year Prison Term For Morris Man Who Punched Woman At Geneva Bar

GENEVA, IL — A 43-year-old Morris man who sucker punched a woman at a Geneva bar in February 2021 was sentenced to 3 and a half years in prison, officials said.

David Hietschold, of the 4200 block of Bargo Lane, wasn't present at his trial or sentencing hearing, prosecutors said. Judge David Kliment issued a warrant for his arrest after he was last seen in court on July 22, 2022.

Nearly two years ago, on Feb. 2, Hietschold was at Third Street Station, a bar on Crescent Place in Geneva. At about 9 p.m., unprovoked, officials said, he approached a woman and blindsided her by punching her in the head with a closed fist, knocking her unconscious. She was then taken to a hospital.

The two had not met or seen each other previous to the incident, according to prosecutors at the Kane County State's Attorney's Office.

On Oct. 4, 2022, Hietschold was found guilty and charged with two counts of aggravated battery, a felony.

"The victim was enjoying a quiet night out with a group of friends," Assistant State's Attorney Sarah Norkus said in a statement. "She was seated at the opposite end of the bar from Hietschold when he marched over, wound up his arm and knocked her out with a blow to the head. A prison sentence is what Hietschold deserves, especially given his cowardly refusal to face his victim in court and accept responsibility for his actions."

Anyone with information on the Morris man's whereabouts is asked to contact the Geneva Police Department at 630-232-4736.