Philadelphia Cop Caught On Tape Striking Woman Charged
By Paul Kurtz
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The District Attorney's office has charged a fired police lieutenant with simple assault for knocking a woman to the ground following September's Puerto Rican Day festival in North Philadelphia.
District Attorney Seth Williams said he made his decision after an extensive investigation that showed police attempting to restore order after a motorist whipped up the crowd by driving in circles at 5th Street and Lehigh Avenue.
A cell phone video captured Lieutenant Jonathan Josey, in uniform, dropping 39-year-old Ida Guzman with a single punch.
"As a result of all the noise, as a result of all the people, all the things being thrown on the police, Jon Josey reacted in the way he did. It's just my determination that that reaction went beyond the scope of what force he is allowed to use," Williams explained.
Simple assault is a second degree misdemeanor, Williams said.
"It's generally unlikely for a first time non-violent offender who is charged with simple assault for a fact similar to this to get jail time," Williams said.
Josey, who has been fired, is expected to surrender on Friday.
