LEWISTON — A 14-year-old Auburn boy who bludgeoned a neighbor with a hammer this past spring may remain in state custody until he turns 21, a judge ordered Tuesday.

Brendan Conroy appeared in 8th District Court wearing a blue and white checked shirt, his dark hair cropped short.

He listened intently and watched through black-framed glasses as Androscoggin County District Attorney Andrew Robinson explained the terms of a plea agreement reached with Conroy’s attorney, Chelsea Peters. His mother sat next to him; his stepfather was seated behind them.

Robinson said Conroy would admit to a charge of elevated aggravated assault and would be committed to an approved juvenile correctional facility until his 21st birthday. If he were to complete his required program and treatment before that time, he could be allowed to leave the facility. Additional charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault are expected to be dismissed.

Victim John Stevens was “satisfied” with the plea agreement and didn’t feel the need to attend Tuesday’s court hearing, Robinson said.

Prosecutors considered asking the court to charge Conroy as an adult given the seriousness of the charges and concerns for public safety. But the absence of any criminal record and unexplored treatment of “significant mental health issues” that have not been pinpointed prompted Robinson not to seek a so-called bind-over hearing, he told the judge.

An adult charged with any of the three counts Conroy was facing could be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years in prison on each count.

Conroy’s sentence will be aimed at rehabilitation in hopes of making him a productive member of society, Peters said.

“He’s very anxious to begin treatment,” she said of her client.

Conroy stood beside Peters, answering: “Yes, your honor,” as Judge Rick Lawrence questioned him about his plea.

Robinson said the state wasn’t seeking restitution because it was unlikely the defendant would have the means to compensate the victim. Stevens will be reimbursed through the Victims Compensation Fund, Robinson said.

As Conroy left the courtroom, he hugged his mother and shook hands with his attorney.

Police said Conroy was visiting his Huard Avenue neighbor in April when he attacked him with a hammer and a hatchet, striking Stevens in the head. Stevens, 56, was taken to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston where he was treated for his injuries and eventually recovered and was released from the hospital.

Police said the attack was random, though Conroy and Stevens were familiar with each other. Conroy had a history of violent outbursts, police said.

Conroy has been held at Long Creek Youth Development Center in South Portland.

[email protected]