Judge Denies Motion to Move Philip Chism Trial

Chism is accused of raping and killing his Danvers, Massachusetts, math teacher, Colleen Ritzer, in October 2013.

A motion to change Philip Chism's trial venue has been denied.

Chism is accused of raping and killing his Danvers, Massachusetts, math teacher, Colleen Ritzer, in October 2013. He was 14 at the time.

Lawyers for Chism sought to move his trial out of eastern Massachusetts, saying it would be difficult to pick an impartial jury due to the large amount of publicity the case has received.

Ritzer's family released a statement after the ruling:

"Our family is pleased that the Court has ruled to keep the trial in Essex County. This venue will ease travel burdens for Colleen’s friends and family members who wish to be present during the proceedings. We firmly believe that jurors residing in Essex County will fairly weigh the facts and evidence that will be presented at trial."

Chism's trial is set to begin in October. 

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