Union to fete Philly officer who hit parade-goer

    Philadelphia’s police union is holding a fundraiser for an officer who is being fired after being recorded on video punching a woman at a parade.

    Earlier this month, the city’s police commissioner announced Lt. Jonathan Josey was being suspended for 30 days with the intent to dismiss.Mayor Michael Nutter has apologized to the woman.

    The Philadelphia Daily News reports union members are supporting Josey and holding a fundraiser for him on Oct. 28.

    FOP President John McNesby says the proceeds will go toward Josey’s living expenses. McNesby says he thought it was inappropriate for the mayor to apologize to the woman before the investigation was complete.

    • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

    City Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez says she’s disappointed because the fundraiser makes it appear that officers are condoning Josey’s actions.

    WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

    Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

    Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal