Court Date Set For Montco Cop, Phoenixville Resident Who Ran Over Naked Man: Police

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — The Norristown police officer who ran over a naked man during an incident last month will appear in court on May 13, court documents show.

Daniel DeOrzio, 52, of Phoenixville, a sergeant on the force, was not justified in his attack, investigators concluded after analyzing evidence.

DeOrzio posted $100,000 bail and was released from custody on Feb. 10, in advance of his preliminary hearing in May.

DeOrzio has been charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, official oppression, and recklessly endangering another person.

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.