A jury in Colorado has found Daniel Fougner, 65, guilty of felony assault on an at-risk person and felony tampering with physical evidence for a brutal attack on his 80-year-old landlord, Richard Wright, in October 2024.
The assault, which occurred outside Wright’s home in Parker, where Fougner was a temporary resident, stemmed from a dispute over money Fougner owed.
The court heard that Fougner retrieved a 2×4 piece of wood and struck Wright twice in the head. The force of the blows caused a subdural hematoma, a brain bleed that a medical expert testified posed a substantial risk of death.
Attempt to Cover Up Evidence
Following the attack, Fougner attempted to destroy the scene evidence by using a garden hose to wash Wright’s blood off the driveway before fleeing. He was later apprehended in Castle Rock.
Wright was transported to Advent Health Parker Hospital and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. He is expected to recover from his serious injuries.
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Chief Deputy District Attorney Eva Wilson condemned Fougner’s actions, stating, “Mr. Wright is an 80-year-old man who opened his home and heart to someone who was down on his luck. When he simply asked to be repaid, he was met with brutal violence. This verdict assures accountability on a man who preyed on the kindness of another.”
Justice Delivered
Deputy District Attorney Joe Ratner called the incident a “vicious and deliberate attack on an elderly man who could have easily died from his injuries.” He added, “After beating Mr. Wright, the defendant tried to wash away the evidence and flee. The jury saw through that and delivered justice.”
District Attorney George Brauchler praised the jury’s decision, underscoring the commitment to protecting vulnerable victims. He criticized Fougner’s betrayal of trust, saying, “Attacking your 80-year-old generous landlord with a 2×4 is a sure signal to society that you don’t belong here. Fougner is going to prison at 65. He knew better and now he will know worse.”
Fougner is scheduled for sentencing on December 1, 2025, and faces a potential sentence of 16 to 48 years in prison.
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