Erie man gets 4 to 8 years for assaulting child despite Ridge’s support

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October 21, 2009

Anonymous The Tribune-Democrat Wed Oct 21, 2009, 09:09 AM EDT

ERIE — An Erie-area man will spend four to eight years in state prison for severely 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 say in the letter that Lazenby is a “loving and nurturing father” despite his crime.

An Erie County judge sentenced Lazenby on Tuesday. He had previously 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 2 1/2-year-old daughter.

Lazenby acknowledged problems with alcohol and anger management. His attorney argued for a three-year sentence.

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Information from: Erie Times-News, http://www.goerie.com

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