GARY WAYNE OLIVER, 40, of Janesville, was convicted after jury trial on September 23, 2026, of one count of assault with caustic chemicals (Pen. Code section 244), one count of elder physical abuse (Pen. Code section 368(b)(1), and one count of arson of the property of another (Pen. Code section 451(d)). The jury did not find true an allegation that Oliver was on parole at the time he committed this offense.
It was alleged that during an altercation, Oliver sprayed the victim, who was 70 years old at the time, with lighter fluid. Oliver than began to light a shelving unit on fire. The victim attempted to grab an item off the shelf, causing flames to spread to his upper torso and face.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
We thank the jurors for their time and deliberation in this matter. The case was submitted by the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office and tried by ADA Jim Jordan.
