An Iowa City man was sentenced Monday after he allegedly stabbed a man in the back in 2010.

Raymond L. Spears, 52, was sentenced Monday to a maximum of 10 years in prison for willful injury, a Class C felony.

Spears entered an Alford plea to his willful-injury charge in November 2011, allowing him to avoid an attempted-murder charge.

His attorney, Kelly Steele, said Spears would have faced a 25- to 35-year sentence and a jury trial if he did not change his plea.

Sixth District Judge Douglas Russell dismissed the attempted-murder charge and ordered Spears to pay restitution in the amount of $615.60, which will increase if more medical bills are submitted. He will also pay $1,000 for attorney fees and court costs. A no-contact order will remain in effect for five years.

Steele said he believes Spears’ will be released on parole after serving four to five years.

Spears has the right to appeal the conviction within 30 days; he will not be allowed bail upon appeal.

— by Beth Bratsos