The Bethlehem resident who attempted to rape and murder a Lehigh university student in July was sentenced on Thursday to 28 and a half to 80 years in state prison.
Bryan Sanchez-Osorio, 17, pleaded guilty to attempted rape, attempted murder, burglary and aggravated assault in February. He entered the Lehigh student’s home on Carlton Avenue through an opened window and attacked her on July 16.
The victim did not attend the sentencing, but she prepared a written statement that was read aloud by the prosecutor before Judge Emil Giordano.
According to police reports, Sanchez-Osorio choked the student and ripped her clothing off. The student’s roommates called Bethlehem police when they heard screaming. Sanchez-Osorio was arrested by police as he left the house.
Sanchez-Osorio had recently moved to Bethlehem from Puerto Rico, where he was treated for mental health problems. According to the Morning Call, Sanchez-Osorio was not on any medications at the time of the attack.
Jordan Reese, Lehigh’s director of Media Relations, said in an email the university is focused on meeting the needs of the victim.
“Our thoughts are focused on the victim of this crime and the services we can provide to support her well being,” Reese said.
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