A man pleaded guilty today to killing a 19-month old child in Lawrence Park last December.
James Knight, 37, of Erie, pleaded guilty in the death of Emmanuel Williams. Knight was the boyfriend of the child's mother. He admitted to being alone with the boy and inflicting blunt force trauma to the child's abdomen.
Knight pleaded guilty to third degree murder, which carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. His attorney, Gene Placidi, says Knight is remorseful.
"I know my client hopes this will start the healing process for the Blue family and the Williams family. He hopes by avoiding a trial, that gives them some comfort," said Placidi.
Five members of the Lawrence Park police force were in the courtroom to personally see the case come to an end.
"Actually, my guys volunteered to come down because they feel this was a very important case and they wanted justice for the little baby," said Chief John Morell.
Knight will be sentenced on October 25.
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