Woman Struck by Philadelphia Cop in Viral Video Settles Lawsuit with City

Jun 10, 2013
9:28 PM

Last fall a troubling video out of Philadelphia showing a police officer punching a women went viral on YouTube. Earlier this year, former Philadelphia Police lieutenant Jonathan Josey, who was fired from the force after reaction to the video was so overwhelming, was found not guilty for striking Aida Guzmán. The not guilty decision was seen a “Philly bag job” by many, since the judge who issued the verdict, Patrick Dugan, disclosed —after the verdict— that he was married to a police officer.

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Today, according to local reports Guzmán settled her civil case against the city. The settlement price? $75,000.

Guzmán’s attorney, Enrique Latoison, gave the following comments to local news, “The city really stepped up. $75,000 for one punch, definitely shows that she was the victim in the matter, that she did nothing wrong.”

“The $75,000 is definitely going to help her,” Latoison added. “She plans on buying a house and will be moving out of the public housing that she lives in now.”

The story concluded with this information:

Although Guzman is fighting to forget that day, Latoison says forgiveness won’t come easy for Josey, who is fighting to get his job back.

“We do not think he should at this point, nor does she forgive him for this situation given the fact that he has never apologized,” says Latoison. “He’s always said it was an accident instead of just acknowledging the fact that he lost his temper.”

Latoison says if asked, Guzman is willing to testify at Josey’s arbitration to oppose his reinstatement.