A Texas college student, Nika Nikoubin, has avoided jail time after stabbing her online date in a Las Vegas hotel room out of revenge. Instead, she has been sentenced to three years of probation. Nikoubin, who migrated from Iran as a child, explained to the court that she battles with severe mental health disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. She pleaded guilty to two charges of false imprisonment with a deadly weapon.

Link Between Revenge Plot and U.S. Military Act

Nikoubin had arranged to meet Daniel Trevino, her date, on the dating platform Plenty of Fish. The pair had rented a hotel room together. During an intimate encounter, Nikoubin blindfolded Trevino and attacked him with a knife, stabbing him in the neck. Prosecutors argued that this act was motivated by revenge for the U.S. drone strike that had taken the life of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani in January 2020.

Impact of Mental Health on Nikoubin’s Behavior

In defense of her actions, Nikoubin’s lawyer claimed it was inappropriate to charge her with attempted murder as her intention was to “hurt” Trevino, not kill him. Trevino, despite forgiving her, highlighted the harm he had suffered due to the incident. Nikoubin’s attorney stated that her comments about Soleimani were part of a psychotic episode.

Challenging Past and Mental Health Struggles

Nikoubin shared that she had experienced a traumatic rape at the age of 18, which had greatly impacted her mental health. Her mental state worsened due to difficulties in adhering to the prescribed treatment plan while she was at a mental health facility. She expressed remorse and apologized to Trevino and the state of Nevada for the harm she had caused.

Probation Granted to Nikoubin in Texas

Nikoubin will serve three years of probation in Texas, taking her mental health struggles into account during her sentencing. This case underscores the significance of addressing mental health issues and recognizing their potential influence on individuals’ actions.