Colorado Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Teen at In-N-Out

Attacker to pay for victim's mental health treatment after viral body-slam incident

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

A 15-year-old boy who was body-slammed by an irate Colorado businessman at an In-N-Out restaurant had to undergo mental health treatment for the terrifying ordeal. The attacker, Lucas Kalisher, struck a plea deal and was sentenced to 30 months probation, anger management treatment, and community service. He was also ordered to pay for the teen's mental health treatment and write him an apology letter.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the need for better conflict resolution and de-escalation training, especially when adults are confronted with accidental situations involving minors. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system's approach to cases involving mental health factors and the impact on victims, particularly young people.

The details

In August 2024, the 15-year-old boy was playing with friends and accidentally splashed water on Kalisher's wife at an In-N-Out in Loveland, Colorado. Kalisher then accosted the teen, putting him in a chokehold and body-slamming him to the floor. Other patrons tried to intervene, but Kalisher and his wife left the restaurant. Kalisher later turned himself in to the police.

  • The incident occurred on August 4, 2024 at an In-N-Out restaurant in Loveland, Colorado.
  • In April 2025, Kalisher pleaded not guilty and was released on $75,000 bond.
  • On February 27, 2026, Kalisher was sentenced to 30 months probation, anger management treatment, and community service.

The players

Lucas Kalisher

A former CEO of Boulder-based private equity firm Summit Source Funding who assaulted a 15-year-old boy at an In-N-Out restaurant.

The 15-year-old victim

A teenager who accidentally splashed water on Kalisher's wife, prompting the assault.

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What they’re saying

“You don't treat a lady that way.”

— Lucas Kalisher

“They were consulted and were in full agreement with going forward with that.”

— Kylie Massman, Spokesperson, Larimer County District Attorney's Office (nypost.com)

What’s next

If Kalisher does not stay out of trouble during his 30-month probation, he could face up to 3 years in jail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for better conflict resolution and de-escalation training, especially when adults are confronted with accidental situations involving minors. It also underscores the importance of considering mental health factors in the criminal justice system and ensuring victims, particularly young people, receive the support they need.