$75,000 settlement in civil suit against Philly cop who hit woman

The City of Philadelphia has settled a civil suit brought by a woman who was struck by a Philadelphia police officer after last year’s Puerto Rican Day Parade.

In what became a viral video, Lt. Jonathan Josey is seen striking Aida Guzman during a street party in North Philadelphia.

Guzman filed the civil suit against the city after Josey, a veteran officer, was acquitted on simple assault charges.

The city agreed to a $75,000 settlement on Friday.

“This was vindication in her heart and receiving $75,000 from the city definitely acknowledges that she was the victim in this matter and that she was the one that was mistreated. That brings her closure,” said attorney Enrique Latoison, who represented Guzman.

Judge Patrick Dugan, who heard the criminal case, said he was troubled by what the cell phone video captured, but that there was more going on than the footage revealed.

The city’s Law Department confirmed the $75,000 settlement, but would not provide further comment.

John McGrody, vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police, said the union is not talking either.

Following Josey’s acquittal, McGrody called Josey’s actions “completely justified.”

Josey may still return to the force. He’s seeking reinstatement through arbitration.

Kelvyn Anderson, executive director of the city’s Police Advisory Commission, said Josey will likely get his job back despite the outcome of the civil suit. The numbers are on his side.

“From the majority of the arbitrations we’ve seen over the last several years, where officers were dismissed, the majority of them, as many as eight or nine out of 10 are returned to the force,” he said..

Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey, who fired Josey, was not available for comment Monday. He has said he would oppose reinstating him.

“I thought the use of force was excessive, uncalled for, and I still feel that way,” Ramsey told NewsWorks following Josey’s acquittal.

Josey’s arbitration case will likely begin in June.