A jury in Virginia found Naresh Bhatt, 39, guilty of first-degree murder on Tuesday, rejecting his claim that his wife, Mamta Kafle Bhatt, died by suicide.
Bhatt was also convicted of concealing and defiling his wife's body. Mamta, a 28-year-old registered nurse and mother, disappeared in July 2024. Her body has never been found.
During his testimony last week, Bhatt admitted that he dismembered and disposed of his wife's remains. He claimed he found her unconscious in their bedroom, surrounded by blood and vomit, and panicked after failing to revive her. He also admitted that he did not call emergency services.
Bhatt testified that he initially considered throwing her remains into the Potomac River before attempting to dispose of them in a trash can. He eventually placed the remains in multiple trash bags and threw them into a trash compactor at an apartment complex.
Prosecutors said the verdict represents an important measure of justice for Mamta and her family, who have endured more than two years of uncertainty.
Bhatt faces up to life in prison for first-degree murder, along with additional prison time for the other convictions. His sentencing is scheduled for March 12, and the judge revoked his bond.
Mamta's friends welcomed the verdict, with one saying, "The truth has come out." Her family and friends have continued to seek justice and ensure her daughter grows up knowing her mother's story.
