Father sentenced for planning to kill self, kids

APPLETON, Wis. — An Iraq war veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder has been sentenced to probation and treatment in Outagamie County for his plans to kill his four children and himself.

Deke Suri faced up to 104 years in prison, but both the defense and prosecutors agreed treatment was best for the 37-year-old Town of Oneida man.

Last December Suri gave his children, ages 5 to 11, some prescription sleeping pills, left a note about his plans to kill himself and the children and outlined funeral arrangements. But, he changed his mind and called 911. Suri was initially charged with four counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide, but pleaded guilty to attempted child abuse.

The Appleton Post-Crescent says Suri will be treated at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, then moved to Tomah.