Oct 22, 2009 16:09
By The Associated Press
October 21, 2009, 10:07AM
ERIE, Pa. - An Erie-area man will spend four to eight years in state prison for assaulting his ex-girlfriend’s toddler despite a letter requesting leniency from ex-Gov. Tom Ridge.
Ridge says in the letter that he is a neighbor of 21-year-old Matthew Lazenby, who lives with his parents in Millcreek Township. Ridge says in the letter that Lazenby is a “loving and nurturing father” despite his crime.
An Erie County judge sentenced Lazenby Tuesday. He had pleaded guilty to shaking and striking the 23-month-old toddler last Halloween, fracturing her skull and causing neurological damage. The victim is not Lazenby’s biological child. He has a 2½-year-old daughter.
Lazenby acknowledged problems with alcohol and anger management. His attorney argued for a three-year sentence.