Man Accused Of Beating Girlfriend's Son Headed To Trial
UNIONTOWN (KDKA) -- There was a show of solidarity today for a little boy who police say was severely beaten by his mother's boyfriend.
Family members were full of emotion as the suspect went to court.
Barb Roy and a host of others make no excuses for how they feel about 35-year-old Ray Matteson.
"I find him a total coward. He's dirt, trash," said Roy, a family friend.
The rage is fueled by what state police say Matteson is accused of doing to 21-month-old Chase Hay on Oct. 4 inside a home in Smithfield, Fayette County.
The toddler was nearly beaten death.
"Severe brain injury, broken leg, lacerated liver, blood on the brain," said Roy.
That's what doctors at Children's Hospital say the child had suffered when he was admitted.
Matteson was in court today for a preliminary hearing on aggravated assault, simple assault and child abuse charges.
"They lost Chase on five different occasions, but revived him," said Roy.
Authorities say Matteson was watching Chase as the boy's mother, Lori Brundege, was out.
Matteson, a convicted criminal with a violent past, was held for trial on $250,000 straight cash bond.
Doctors testified that the outlook for Chase is not good. But the little boy's supporters, who held signs and wore tee-shirts with Chase's picture, say the boy will beat the odds and he won't fight alone.
"Chase, we're praying for you, we're with you all the way," Roy said. "We love you, Chase."
RELATED LINKS:
Police: Child In Critical Condition After Being Assaulted (10/6/13)
Mother's Boyfriend Jailed After 20-Month-Old Critically Injured (10/7/13)
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