Two people who had never before stood before a judge received prison sentences Tuesday for committing grievous assaults.

Tiffany S. Hood, 29, who was a high school teacher when she assaulted an acquaintance with a broken beer bottle, was sentenced to seven years in prison followed by eight years of probation.

Ms. Hood could have received up to 20 years in prison for the March 23, 2005, assault on Michelle Thomas, who still suffers nerve damage, double vision and constant eye infections.

"I am begging you - the harshest sentence you can impose," Ms. Thomas said to Judge Neal W. Dickert.

Ms. Hood, her family and supporters had pleaded for mercy. Ms. Hood, who is expecting a child, asked Ms. Thomas for forgiveness and said she and her family are suffering, too.

The judge heard similar appeals for mercy on behalf of Craig M. Jean, 26, who pleaded guilty to aggravated assault for an April 15 attack on Leon Butler.

The men got into an argument after drinking with others that night, and Mr. Jean punched Mr. Butler in the head.

His skull was fractured in several places, and he required emergency brain surgery.

Mr. Butler, who served 13 months in Iraq, cannot remain in the Army because of the damage.

Mr. Jean, who had never been in legal trouble before, was sentenced to serve three years in prison and five years on probation.

Judge Dickert sentenced Ms. Hood and Mr. Jean under the First Offender Act. If they successfully complete their sentences no conviction will remain on their records.