Watch CBS News

Judge Rejects Request For Further Bail Reduction From Former Hero Cop

By Tony Hanson

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A judge has rejected a defense request to further reduce bail for a former hero Philadelphia cop now awaiting trial on charges including rape, making terroristic threats and drug offenses.

Richard DeCoatsworth, 27, who was shot in the face in 2007, was arrested and charged in May of this year with raping two women.

DeCoatsworth was initially held in lieu of $60 million bail. Bail was later reduced to $3 million. But the defense attorney, citing the danger to a former officer, whom he called a celebrity defendant, in prison, sought a bail reduction to $1 million, because his family could post the necessary funds.

But the prosecutor argued against another reduction, saying the judge had already given the issue fair consideration, and DeCoatsworth had gotten a $57 million discount.

The judge ruled against the defense, but did advise the defense to cite any specific safety concerns so the prison could take action. The defendant has pleaded not guilty and the defense has said the allegations are false and are motivated by revenge by the alleged victims.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.