SHERBURNE – A man who is a part-time Hamilton Police officer and Colgate University safety officer has been placed on administrative leave over pending charges involving the alleged assault of a preschooler in the Village of Sherburne.

Anthony (Tony) E. Lawrence, 27, is charged with two misdemeanors – third degree assault and endangering the welfare of a minor – after State Troopers responded to a complaint involving the abuse of a young child at his residence.

Police have not identified the relationship Lawrence may have to the youth over concerns of protecting the alleged victim’s identity.

State Police Sgt. Elizabeth R. Wonka said the victim was a resident of the Sherburne area and that the alleged attack took place during a domestic dispute.

Wonka said the child was thrown and struck by Lawrence, causing cuts and bruises to the child’s face.

Lawrence has pleaded not guilty to both charges and is expected to appear back in Village of Sherburne court later in May.