Man convicted of attacking relative at Geneva hospital

A west suburban man has been found guilty of choking a sick relative and brandishing a knife last year at a west suburban hospital.

Circuit Judge Donald Tegeler Jr. convicted 31-year-old Justin B. Patzer on Thursday of felony counts of armed violence and aggravated domestic battery, as well as misdemeanor counts of domestic battery and aggravated assault, according to the Kane County state’s attorney’s office. Patzer had waived his right to a jury trial.

Patzer and other family members were visiting a sick relative at Delnor Hospital in Geneva on Jan. 27, 2015, when Patzer grabbed the victim by the throat and impeded his breathing, prosecutors said. The two had argued via social media prior to the attack.

They were separated by another relative and the victim went out into the hallway, prosecutors said. Patzer then brandished a folding knife and made threats before leaving the hospital.

The attack prompted a “soft lockdown” at the hospital and nearby schools, officials said at the time.

“Mr. Patzer’s violent act was the result of his decision to carry his vendetta against a relative into the public,” State’s Attorney Joe McMahon said in a statement. “Because of his attack, Delnor Hospital had to be placed on lockdown, 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.”

Patzer, who lives in Campton Hills, faces a sentence of between 10 and 30 years in prison, according to the state’s attorney’s office. He is expected to appear in court for motions and sentencing July 8.