Crime & Safety
Norristown Officer Who Ran Over Naked Man To Appear In Court Next Week: Officials
The officer, who has been charged with aggravated assault, will have his first court appearance since the incident in February.
NORRISTOWN, PA — The Norristown police officer who authorities said ran over a naked man in February will appear in court for the first time next week.
Daniel DeOrzio, 52, a sergeant on the force, was not justified in his attack, investigators said they determined after reviewing the event. The district attorney's office said it occurred without warning and when the naked man in question did not pose a serious threat.
A preliminary hearing for DeOrzio is set for May 13 at 11 a.m. before Magisterial District Judge Richard H. Welsh. It will be held at the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown.
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The court will determine how charges against DeOrzio will proceed and what will be brought forth to trial.
DeOrzio has been charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, official oppression, and recklessly endangering another person.
Find out what's happening in Norristownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
He has since resigned from his position with the Norristown Police Department.
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 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.
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