Woman to victim in court: Sorry I stabbed you outside the strip club

An Arona woman apologized Friday in court for stabbing a man last year outside of a South Huntingdon strip club.

Kristin Kruel, 23, took responsibility for the stabbing on May 13, 2018 and pleaded guilty to an aggravated assault charge.

“I truly apologize for the harm I caused you,” Kruel said. “I can’t imagine the trauma I put you through.”

Kruel was sentenced Friday to three to seven years in a state prison. She has been jailed since the attack outside The Filly Corral Gentlemen’s Club along Motordrome Road near Interstate 70.

Prosecutors agreed to drop attempted homicide and related charges in exchange for the plea. Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Dupilka said the victim was in agreement with the offer, but was unable to be in court Friday.

Police said two men were hospitalized after a fight outside of the establishment at 3:45 a.m. Kruel was with a group who became upset because the club was about to close and they couldn’t get alcohol.

The group eventually exited, and employees locked the doors and left from a rear entrance. A man antagonized employees and fellow patrons and a fight broke out. A second man punched the first man, who was knocked unconscious, and his head hit the pavement, police said.

During the fight outside, police said Kruel grabbed a knife and stabbed one of the men in the hand, arm and torso.

Judge Rita Hathaway said Kruel was fortunate he agreed to the plea deal.

“You’re lucky you’re not standing here facing homicide charges,” she said.

Kruel was ordered to undergo mental health and drug and alcohol evaluations in state prison. She was credited with time served.