A Washoe County jury delivered a guilty verdict on Thursday in the case of 23‑year‑old Aiden Bartee, finding him guilty of felony battery resulting in substantial bodily harm to his 78‑year‑old landlord.

Background of the dispute

According to prosecutors, the incident stemmed from an eviction notice the landlord had posted on the rental unit Bartee was occupying. When the landlord returned to the property in March to inspect the premises, Bartee allegedly confronted him outside the building and threw a punch that struck the landlord in the face.

Injuries sustained

The assault left the landlord with a fractured orbital bone and a broken nose, injuries described by the medical examiner as “substantial bodily harm.” Those injuries formed the basis for the felony charge, which carries a potential sentence of up to ten years in state prison.

Trial and verdict

The two‑day trial, held in Reno’s district court, featured testimony from the landlord, medical experts, and law‑enforcement officers who responded to the scene. After deliberating, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of guilty on the felony battery charge.

Next steps

Bartee is scheduled to be sentenced on September 10. If the judge imposes the maximum penalty, Bartee could spend a decade behind bars. The case underscores the seriousness with which Nevada courts treat violent offenses against seniors, a demographic that many community members view as especially vulnerable.

Community response

Local residents and senior‑advocacy groups expressed relief that the legal process held the perpetrator accountable. “Our elders deserve to feel safe in their own homes,” said a spokesperson for the Nevada Senior Citizens Association. “Violence against them will not be tolerated.”

The verdict also serves as a reminder to landlords and tenants alike that disputes should be resolved through lawful channels, not through intimidation or physical force.

Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.