By Ron Todt
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — A former Philadelphia police officer once hailed as a hero and given a seat next to the first lady at a speech by President Obama has been arrested and charged with rape and other crimes.
Authorities allege that former officer Richard DeCoatsworth left a party with two females early Thursday and took them to another location, where they allege he produced a handgun and forced them to use narcotics and engage in sexual acts.
A police spokeswoman said the victims called police and the 27-year-old DeCoatsworth was charged with rape, sexual assault, terroristic threats and related offenses.
A listed number for DeCoatsworth had been disconnected; it was unclear whether he had an attorney.
WCAU-TV, which first reported the arrest, said DeCoatsworth retired from the force on disability in 2011.
Copyright 2013 Associated Press