BOISE, Idaho — Matthew Lehigh, a 32-year-old Oregon resident, has been sentenced to over three years in prison for committing a series of hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ community in Idaho. The sentence, delivered on Thursday, includes 37 months of incarceration and a subsequent three-year period of supervised release, along with an order to pay restitution.
Guilty Plea and Hate Crime Charges
Lehigh entered a guilty plea to two felony counts under the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, according to a plea agreement. This plea stems from incidents last October where Lehigh assaulted a transgender librarian in Boise and attempted to use his vehicle as a weapon against a library security guard.
Further Violent Incidents
The hate crimes escalated when Lehigh, assuming the sexual orientation of two women based on their appearance, directed homophobic slurs and threats at them, and dangerously accelerated his vehicle towards them. The women narrowly escaped physical harm, but one of their vehicles was struck.
In addition to these acts, the U.S. Justice Department noted that Lehigh admitted to assaulting another individual using anti-LGBTQ+ slurs and setting a pride flag on fire, which was displayed on the porch of a same-sex couple.
Defense and Apology
Lehigh’s attorney brought forth his Christian beliefs as context, stating that although Lehigh views homosexuality as sinful, he did not wish to cause harm until his mental health deteriorated. Lehigh, who has undergone treatment, expressed his remorse in court, thankful that the outcomes of his actions were not more tragic.
State Law Limitations
The gravity of Lehigh’s actions was underscored by the limitations of local law enforcement in pursuing hate crime charges, as Idaho’s malicious harassment statute does not extend to sexual orientation or gender identity. With the federal charges in place, Boise and Ada County prosecutors dismissed the initial assault charges.
Impact on Victims
The repercussions of Lehigh’s actions have been profound for the victims, with Vegas Shegrud, one of the intended targets of the car attack, detailing the severe mental health struggles and life disruptions she faced following the incident.
The sentencing closes a chapter on a series of hate crimes that have deeply affected the Boise community and draws attention to the gaps in state legislation regarding the protection of LGBTQ individuals.
©loveinclusion.org
