The Associated Press
BELLEFONTE, Pa.- A university student who assaulted a police officer as football fans rushed the field after a victory last fall was sentenced to at least four months in prison, but will be eligible for work release.
Judge Bradley P. Lunsford told Nathan G. Lehman on Tuesday that his behavior after the Oct. 8 game was baffling, given his “unblemished background.”
The 19-year-old, an engineering student at Pennsylvania State University, was described as religious and a nondrinker.
Lehman pleaded guilty to aggravated assault for tackling university police officer Cyprien Brien, punching him in the face and putting him in a headlock that left him with bruised neck ligaments, authorities said.
In court, Lehman said he was distraught after a difficult breakup with his girlfriend and two sleepless nights camped outside the stadium before the game against rival Ohio State.
“I probably came as close to snapping as I ever did,” Lehman testified.
The judge sentenced him to four months to 23 1/2 months in prison and a $1,000 fine.
After Penn State’s 17-10 win over the Buckeyes, an estimated 2,000 fans rushed the field in celebration and stayed there for 20 minutes. Police in riot gear finally coaxed them off the field.