Charges Withdrawn Against Man Seen In YouTube Police Fight

Charges have been withdrawn against a man whose confrontation with Pittsburgh police on St. Patrick’s Day was seen in a video clip posted on YouTube.

Michael Georgiana, 23, was recorded being arrested at St. Patrick's Day celebrations in March in Station Square.

When he appeared in court soon after the incident, Georgiana had obvious marks on his face from the arrest -- a cut on the bridge of his nose and a black right eye. His parents were by his side.

Police said Georgiana was intoxicated and became aggressive with police before he was punched in the face and shocked with a Taser.

VIDEO: YouTube Police Fight Suspect In Court

Georgiana said nothing at a March court hearing, but his attorney, Carl Parise, said, “He just wants to get on with his life. It's a learning experience for someone that is 23 years old, and it's a difficult one that will stick with him for a while," said Parise.

Officer Matthew Turko was the officer who punched Georgiana during arrest.

Police Chief Nate Harper watched the video and said the use of force by Turko was justified since Georgiana kicked and grabbed Turko’s legs.

VIDEO: Chief Harper Responds To Video

According to the police report, Georgiana was escorted out of a bar by police. Outside, he started screaming, flexing and even threw a bar stool, according to the police report.

"The individual was in one of the establishments throwing bottles, bar stools, very combative. And as you see here with this video, when he was removed, he was still very combative," Harper said.

The Fraternal Order of Police said Georgiana was apologetic at the hospital for his actions.

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