Homeless man tased after running from Spring City police

By Caroline Sweeney
casweeney@pottsmerc.com 

Alex Hartzell

SPRING CITY — On Dec. 22, the subject of an investigation led police on a foot chase along the banks of the Schuylkill River, police said.
Alex Hartzell, 21, was found sleeping under a bridge that connects Spring City to Royersford, police said.
The bridge is located in Riverfront Park and, according to police, it is clearly marked with a no trespassing sign.
When an officer arrived to speak with Hartzell, he ran north down the river bank, police said.
In order to stop Hartzell, police said the officer involved used a Taser.
While police were searching the area where Hartzell was sleeping they found two Apple iPod classics, one iPod touch and marijuana, police said.
Hartzell was charged with multiple misdemeanors including receiving stolen property, escape and resisting arrest, according to court documents.
He is confined to the Chester County Prison in lieu of $2,500. His next appearance in court is scheduled for Dec. 26 at 9 a.m. in front of District Judge James. V. Deangelo.