Violent Attack at Delnor Hospital ICU Lands Campton Hills Man in Prison

A 32-year-old Campton Hills man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for attacking and strangling a family member while they were visiting a sick relative at the hospital's intensive care unit, prosecutors said, over an argument that began on social media.

Justin B. Patzer, of the 39W block of Campton Hills Drive in Campton Hills, was sentenced Friday after being convicted in May to charges 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.

• MORE ON PATCH: Campton Hills Man Convicted in Attack at Delnor Hospital
  

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 over social media, according to a press release from the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Patzer grabbed the victim by the throat, impeding his breathing, according to prosecutors. 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.

The hospital was placed on lockdown following the incident and Patzer was later arrested. Under Illinois law, Patzer is eligible for day for day sentencing and has received credit for 529 days served in the Kane County jail, where he has been held since his arrest.

“Mr. Patzer’s public display of violence demonstrated a lack of regard for others. It would be bad enough had this incident occurred in his home. It is inexcusable that it happened in a place where sick people go for comfort and healing,” Kane County State’s Attorney Joe McMahon said.

• MORE ON PATCH: Police Seek Suspect in Incident That Lead to Delnor Lockdown

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