Norristown Officer Who Ran Over Naked Man Charged With Aggravated Assault

NORRISTOWN, PA — The Norristown police officer who struck a naked man with his patrol vehicle has been charged with aggravated assault, the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office announced Tuesday.

Daniel DeOrzio, 52, a sergeant on the force, was not justified in his attack, which investigators said occurred without warning and when the naked man in question did not pose a serious threat, officials said.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 8:04 a.m. at the intersection of West Airy Street and Stanbridge Street.

The naked man, later identified as Justin Rich, was "screaming and damaging cars" when police arrived, according to authorities. He then attempted to open the doors of police vehicles.

DeOrzio, who was the highest ranking officer on scene, ordered a gray pickup truck to be moved out of his way in the intersection, the DA said.

Immediately after the vehicle moved, DeOrzio accelerated his vehicle and slammed it into Rich, sending him flying into the air and into the middle of the road, according to police.

When Rich was hit, he was standing in the middle of the intersection, unarmed, with his hands on his hips, officials found. Investigators said that DeOrzio did not utilize any de-escalation tactics, did not give any verbal orders or commands, did not attempt to restrain Rich, and did not attempt to use a less lethal weapon, all of which were options.

Rich was booked at Paoli Hospital, where he was released on Feb. 4. He faces only misdemeanor charges.

In addition to aggravated assault, DeOrzio has been charged with simple assault, official oppression, and recklessly endangering another person. He turned himself in to detectives on Tuesday morning and is awaiting arraignment. A preliminary hearing will be scheduled once he is arraigned.