Teen tied to armed robbery in Yuma sentenced

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The teen tied to an armed robbery in March of last year has been sentenced to 12 years in prison on Tuesday.

19-year-old Jayden Patino accepted a plea deal back in January of this year to two counts of armed burglary.

Police say he, along with another teen, broke into the home of an elderly couple and threatened to shoot then with a firearm.

They stole over $7,500 worth of property from the home before being arrested.

In addition to serving 12 years in prison, Patino is said to have 355 days of credit served.

The judge's ruling came after an emotional hearing where one victim spoke about the lasting impact of the crime.

Judge Darci Weede says, "Sentencing the defendant to serve an aggravated term of 12 years in the Arizona Department of Corrections. The sentence will run from today's date forward. You will receive credit for 355 served prior to this sentencing."

Carol Hartz, one of the victims, delivered a statement during the sentencing: "My husband and I have suffered. They've gotten three meals a day, a bed, a roof over their head, and no worries whatsoever unless they've caused it. Where we have been suffering for 355 days."

Hartz also expressed her frustration with how long the case has taken saying the emotional toll has been overwhelming.

"If you do the crime do the time this has gone on long enough. They just need to stop being little baby boys and admit to their crime and take their punishment that is being dished out. Quit wasting everyone's time and the taxpayers money and just dragging this on and on and on," Hartz expressed.  

Before being led away, Patino issued an apology to the victims: "I made a mistake and honestly, I'm truly sorry. I know they won't forgive me. They'll never forgive me, but I'm truly sorry."

Judge Weede says she appreciates Patino taking responsibility and hopes he comes out of his sentence a better person.