Eric M. Ortega
A Lititz man will spend at least six years in state prison for beating his infant daughter, causing a skull fracture and brain injuries.
Eric M. Ortega said he is shocked at his own behavior, which likely caused the child permanent damage, according to court testimony.
"I still can't believe I did this to someone I truly love," Ortega said. "My past will haunt me forever."
Ortega admitted to punching and shaking the 4-month-old girl last May at a Warwick Township home.
In exchange for the plea, prosecutors agreed to a sentence of 6 to 12 years in state prison.
Ortega, 29, also was ordered to pay $24,400 in restitution costs relating to the baby's medical treatment.
Ortega was banned from having contact with the little girl.
"For a number of years, you'll never see this child again," Lancaster County President Judge Joseph Madenspacher said.
Ortega cried when Assistant District Attorney Randall Miller recited the baby's many serious injuries, which included a skull fracture, brain damage and multiple broken ribs.
Miller said the girl has made improvements, but the full extent of her injuries might not be evident for several years.
After beating the child, Ortega didn't call 911 and only contacted the baby's mother a day later.
"Afterwards, you basically did nothing," Madenspacher said.
"Is that what happened?" the judge asked.
"Yes, your honor," Ortega said, wiping his eyes.
Madenspacher said he found Ortega's remorse genuine.
"More often that not, I don't buy into that," the judge said.
Defense attorney Joseph Kenneff told the judge that Ortega had a traumatic childhood. Ortega's father committed suicide when Ortega was 5, and his mother abused drugs, the judge was told.
Ortega is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and has "anger issues," Kenneff said.
"He's devastated by his actions and struggles to get by," Kenneff said.
"I was out of control," Ortega told Madenspacher. "I was a child full of anger, hatred and pain. I see now how much I need help.
"It took this tragic event to open my eyes."
The victim, now 13 months, is in the custody of local Children & Youth services.
The mother is in a legal battle to reclaim custody, according to testimony.
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