Philip Chism Charged In Assault On State Worker

A 15-year-old Danvers boy charged with killing his teacher last year faces new charges after an assault on a state youth services staffer.

Philip Chism was indicted Wednesday as a youthful offender on charges of attempted murder by strangulation, assault with intent to murder, kidnapping, and two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. The designation means he could face adult penalties.

Prosecutors allege Chism attacked the 29-year-old woman on June 2 after following her into a bathroom at the youth facility in Boston where he was being held. Co-workers stopped him when she cried for help. The woman declined medical treatment.

Chism has pleaded not guilty to robbing, raping and killing 24-year-old Danvers High School teacher Colleen Ritzer after following her into a school bathroom.

A message was left Wednesday for his lawyer.