Norristown Officer Who Ran Over Naked Man Resigns: Police

NORRISTOWN, PA — The Norristown police officer who has been criminally charged after running over a naked man during an incident last week has submitted his letter of resignation, Norristown municipal officials confirmed.

Sgt. Daniel DeOrzio, 52, who has been charged with aggravated assault, sent in his letter of resignation on Feb. 6, the municipality confirmed on Tuesday.

"The municipality takes allegations of misconduct seriously and remains committed to accountability, transparency, and maintaining the trust of our community," Norristown officials shared in a statement. "The municipality will continue to cooperate fully with any appropriate investigative authorities."

Related: Norristown Officer Who Ran Over Naked Man Charged With Aggravated Assault

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.