Although Carmack faced serious charges and reprimands from Aquilina, both the prosecutor and defense acknowledged this as an opportunity to turn a violent outburst into a learning experience.

In addition, as part of Carmack’s rehabilitation, Aquilina is requiring him to write a letter of apology to each victim.

“(If) you do not do well on probation, I will make sure that the jail saves a bed for you,” Aquilina said.

Carmack sought his ex-girlfriend, Therese Kerr, last year on the night of Aug. 27 and into the morning of Aug. 28. Multiple witnesses say he grabbed Kerr by the neck and shoulders and yelled at her before other males at the party intervened. Carmack originally told police he was kicked, beaten and stabbed by members of the MSU hockey team.

Kerr’s family was present for the sentencing, telling The State News they were satisfied with Carmack’s sentencing.

“The decision was a good one,” Therese Kerr’s father, John Kerr said. “I don’t think it was lenient in anyway. … If he does what (the judge) said, he will have his best chance of rehabilitation.”

As part of probation, Carmack will be subject to counseling and further treatment if the judge deems necessary. While the judge outlined his probation, Carmack admitted feeling guilty for his actions, acknowledging his mother’s diagnosis of cancer had put an additional stress on his life.

Before Carmack accepted a plea bargain in May, he faced charges of two counts of assault and battery, filing a false police report of a felony, first-degree home invasion and stalking and domestic assault and battery.

Additionally, at the time of the plea bargain, Aquilina awarded Carmack the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act status, meaning he would not face any jail time or criminal record when he completes his probation.