Teen admits attack that left teacher with a broken neck

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, March, 2007 | by Andrew Maykuth

A 15-year-old boy with a history of disciplinary problems - including a previous attack on a teacher - admitted yesterday that he assaulted a Germantown High School teacher last month, breaking the teacher's neck.

James Footman, the younger of two teens charged with confronting algebra teacher Frank Burd over the use of an iPod during class, admitted his involvement yesterday in Philadelphia Family Court.

Judge Richard J. Gordon, who characterized the attack as "brutal," scheduled sentencing for April 3 after Footman undergoes psychological examinations. Footman could be confined in youth centers until he turns 21. He was represented by a public defender.

The judge also scheduled an April 5 trial for Donte Boykin, 17, whose use of the iPod in class triggered...