Kyle Gemin has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the killing of his 74-year-old grandfather in Belwood over three years ago.
The 12-person jury – eight males and four females – rendered its verdict in a Guelph Superior Court Thursday evening after about four hours of deliberation.
The conviction comes with an automatic life sentence, with parole eligibility between 10 and 25 years.
Justice Gordon Lemon is now tasked with deciding how much time will pass before Gemin is eligible for parole. Submissions are expected on Dec. 4.
Members and supporters of the Gemin family were in attendance to hear the decision.
George Gemin, 74, was found dead on July 1, 2020 inside the trailer he and his grandson called home at Maple Leaf Acres trailer park in Belwood.
Kyle was arrested soon after off-site, and has been in custody since.
It's been nearly six weeks since the trial began Sept. 11, one that heard police officers, medical professionals and Gemin's neighbours, among others, testify.
In his charge to the jury, Lemon said the jury must answer three questions: did Kyle commit the unlawful act of assault? did Kyle cause George's death? and did he have intent to kill?
In its closing statements made Wednesday, the Crown argued Kyle had intent to kill.
The defence argued Kyle had been experiencing mental health issues and there is "a mountain of reasonable doubt with regard to intent."
"The jury was attentive and engaged throughout the whole trial," Crown attorney Robert Butler told GuelphToday shortly after the verdict in a statement. "The justice system is grateful for their service. The Crown believes justice was done.
"Lastly, thanks to the OPP and officers Heidi Pautsch and Kevin Detweiler for their tireless work."
