Four teenagers were indicted this week following an attack on a disabled man in a Massachusetts town.
The Massachusetts town of Danvers has come together in support of the beloved community member with developmental disabilities, following allegations that he was brutally attacked by a group of teenagers last month.
The Indictment
Four teenagers were charged this week in connection with the assault on Christopher "Ducky" Anderson, a well-known figure in the community, the Essex County District Attorney's Office announced on Tuesday. The suspects, three 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old, have been indicted, while warrants have been issued for two additional juveniles allegedly involved in the attack.
The Attack on Anderson
Anderson was hospitalized with broken ribs and other injuries after authorities said a group of teens lured him into the woods, where they kicked him and threw a bicycle on him.
City detectives and school police collaborated with the office of District Attorney Paul F. Tucker to identify and charge the teenagers involved, Tucker said in a statement. While authorities have identified the four suspects, their names have not been released due to their status as minors.
Danvers Police Chief Jamie Lovell expressed gratitude to Anderson, his family and the community "for their unwavering support, patience, and understanding during this challenging process."
Community Response
The attack on Anderson has sparked an outpouring of community support, NBC10 Boston reported, with residents organizing a fundraiser and local firefighters visiting him in solidarity. Anderson, a familiar and cherished figure in the town of over 28,000, is well-known for his presence around the community.
In the days following the attack, residents packed a Select Board meeting to call for stronger police action against a group of 10 to 15 teenagers who "run amok," one attendee described the situation.
Among those who addressed the board was Anderson himself.
"It just breaks my heart every day," Anderson said while speaking to the board. "And I can't sleep at night time. And it's hard. Can you guys do more for me, please?"
Antoinette Anderson, Christopher "Ducky" Anderson's mother, urged the Select Board to take action against the teenagers, saying she "wanted something done" about those "who go and damn near kill my son."
Speaking later to NBC10 Boston, she expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support her son has received from the community.
"I cannot believe how well they have treated him," Anderson's mother added while speaking to NBC 10 Boston.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
English (US) ·