Philly Cop Caught On Tape Striking Woman Gets Job Back
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A Philadelphia cop who was fired after a video of him punching a woman went viral is getting his job back.
Lt. Jonathan Josey is back on the force, following an arbitration ruling. Josey was fired after the videotaped incident that happened in September 2012 at the Puerto Rican day parade. (See Related Story)
Josey was acquitted at trial in February of this year. (See Related Story)
Josey testified that Aida Guzman refused to drop a bottle of beer she had been holding. He said that he went to knock the bottle from her hand and was "shocked" to see her go down when his hand hit her face.
Guzman was originally charged with disorderly conduct, but the charges were later dropped.
Josey said he was "troubled" by the video that caught part of the incident and went viral shortly afterward, but says there was more going on than revealed in the video — describing the scene as "chaos" and "volatile."
Attorney Fortunato Perri Jr. represents Josey and says they are thrilled:
"We feel as though it is the correct decision, we felt all along that Lt. Josey should not have lost his job as a result of this incident. He is looking forward to getting back to work and to protect and serve the people and citizens of Philadelphia."
Guzman's attorney says he is not surprised by the ruling, in part because of the earlier not guilty verdict. Guzman settled with the city for $75,000.
"I have no regrets about the action I took at the time this took place. The decision has been rendered, and I'll abide by it," said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey.
Josey will be returned to the force effectively immediately.
