Justin B. Patzer, 31, of the 39W block of Campton Hills Drive, Campton Hills, was convicted late Thursday, May 12, 2016, by Circuit Judge Donald M. Tegeler Jr., of armed violence, a Class X felony, aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony, domestic battery, a Class A misdemeanor, and aggravated assault, a Class A misdemeanor. Patzer waived his right to a jury trial.

Justin Patzer

During the two-day bench trial, Kane County prosecutors presented evidence that on Jan. 27, 2015, family members were visiting a sick relative who was in intensive care at Delnor Hospital in Geneva when Patzer arrived and attacked the victim. Patzer was angry at the victim as the two had previously argued via social media.

Patzer grabbed the victim by the throat, impeding his breathing. The two were separated by another relative and the victim went into the hallway. Patzer then brandished a folding knife, made threats and ran off, leaving the hospital.

Tegeler set Patzer’s next court appearance for 1:30 p.m. July 8, 2016, for motions and sentencing. Patzer faces a sentence of between 10 and 30 years.

Patzer remains in custody at the Kane County jail, where he has been held since his arrest in lieu of $250,000 bail. Bond was revoked upon conviction.

The case was prosecuted by Kane County Assistant State’s Attorneys Megan Baxter and David Belshan.

“Mr. Patzer’s violent act was the result of his decision to carry his vendetta against a relative into the public. Because of his attack, Delnor Hospital had to be placed on lock down, interrupting the hospital’s daily work, until authorities could determine that Mr. Patzer was no longer a threat to the victim or anyone else. This conviction is a loud and clear message that there are better ways to resolve disputes,” Kane County State’s Attorney Joe McMahon said.

SOURCE: Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office news release. To follow news releases directly from the SAO, visit the State’s Attorney’s website and Facebook page.