The judge sentenced Manuel Bracker to 14 years to life plus three years in prison.
Bracker is behind a 2022 attack that unfolded in broad daylight at Lithia Ford. Investigators say he entered the dealership and began stabbing.
"The conduct is not only dangerous to public safety, but it was a life-changing event for each of the victims who were subject to any interaction with Mr. Bracker whatsoever," prosecutor Innessa Yenokian said.
Court documents reveal Bracker's criminal history, including time served for a previous stabbing in 2019.
The victim from the 2022 attack spoke in court on Monday.
"His senseless and cowardly attack has dramatically affected me mentally and physically, and the ongoing physical and emotional pain I'm left with is a daily reminder of his attempts to take my life," he said.
The Lithia employee was stabbed twice near his lower right back. He previously testified it felt like "an electrifying pain" he "couldn't fathom."
"I do not ultimately wish the defendant any ill will, but we all need to take responsibility and ownership for our actions," he said.
Investigators recovered a knife near the highway shoulder, and prosecutors charged Bracker with attempted murder and assault.
"He knew what he was doing when he acted in this case," Yenokian said.
Bracker denied the charges for nearly three years, then, in August, pleaded guilty.
His defense attorney, Roberto Dulce, still tried to get the case thrown out, claiming he was ineffective.
The judge denied the request, and with Bracker's guilty plea, the case will never head to trial.
"It's clear, I believe, it's not in dispute that the mental health status of Mr. Bracker has always been at play, whether it be on the prior or in this particular case," Dulce said.
Bracker will now head to the California Department of Corrections to serve the remainder of his sentence. He already has nearly 3.5 years of credit.
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