Judge Sets Philip Chism Sentencing Date, Rules On Color Worn In Courtroom

SALEM, Mass. (AP) — A judge has ruled that family and friends of a Massachusetts math teacher who was raped and killed by a 14-year-old student may wear pink at his sentencing, but prosecutors and law enforcement may not.

The judge made the decision Tuesday when he scheduled sentencing for Philip Chism for Jan. 29.

Chism, who is now 16, was convicted last week of aggravated rape, robbery and murder in the 2013 death of Danvers High School teacher Colleen Ritzer.

Ritzer's favorite color was pink.

The defense asked the judge to bar people except family from wearing pink to maintain the appearance of "fair and even justice."

The prosecution called the request "cruel and petty."

Chism faces life in prison. He could be eligible for parole after 15 to 25 years because he is a juvenile.