A Sacramento sheriff’s deputy, Matthew Gurich, who was fired after bodycam footage showed him swearing at and shoving a 71-year-old woman outside a jail, now faces a felony charge of unlawful assault by a public officer.
The incident occurred on October 7, 2024, after the woman, Ourinia Thimmhardy, had completed her release paperwork at the downtown Sacramento jail.
What Happened According to Bodycam Footage
The footage shows Thimmhardy talking to Gurich as she signs multiple release forms. When she pauses to speak, Gurich gets visibly frustrated and repeatedly tells her to focus on signing.
At one point, Gurich places his hand on her shoulder. When she asks him not to touch her and to step back, he replies,
“You need to stop f***ing talking and just listen to us.”
As Gurich escorts her out with other deputies, he begins pushing her despite her protests. He shoves her hard enough to make her fall to the ground outside the jail, causing visible pain. Gurich and the other deputies then walk away, leaving her on the ground.
Injuries and Aftermath
Thimmhardy, who has a history of mental health issues, had to undergo surgery for a broken femur and spent three months in the hospital. Sadly, during her hospitalization, her husband suffered a heart attack and passed away.
Her attorney, Mark Merin, said she now cannot climb stairs and requires help from care workers because of the injuries.
Deputy Fired and Charges Filed
Following the incident, Gurich was first placed on administrative leave and then officially terminated on March 14, 2025.
The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office has charged him with one felony count of unlawful assault by a public officer.
Thimmhardy is expected to file a lawsuit next week against the sheriff’s office.
Calls for Reform and Accountability
Attorney Merin emphasized the need for major changes in how the county treats jail inmates, saying:
“There has to be training, staff accountability, and respect for the human dignity of those in custody.”
The Sacramento District Attorney’s Office said in a statement:
“It is our ethical duty to follow the law and facts when we prosecute all cases. Because these are pending cases, we cannot comment any further.”