BELLEFONTE, Pa. -- A Penn State 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 against rival Ohio State was
baffling, given his "unblemished background."
The 19-year-old engineering student 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 breakup with his
girlfriend and two sleepless nights camped outside the stadium
before the game.
"I probably came as close to snapping as I ever did," Lehman
testified.
The judge sentenced him to four months to 23½ months in prison,
with eligibility for work release, 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.