Video: Judge Acquits Philly Cop Who Hit Woman at Parade

A Municipal Court judge acquitted a former Philadelphia Police officer of simple assault for striking a woman at last year's Puerto Rican Parade.

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VIDEO: Philly Officer Punches Woman

A Municipal Court judge acquitted a former Philadelphia Police officer of simple assault for striking a woman at last year's Puerto Rican Parade.

Judge Patrick F. Dugan said he was troubled by former Lt. Jonathan Josey's conduct in a video clip showing him punching Aida Guzman from behind and knocking her down during the Sept. 30 event.

Dugan cited Josey's testimony that the 19-year decorated police veteran was trying to swipe a beer bottle from Gizman's hand and accidentally hit her, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer. A defense expert on police procedure had approved of Josey's conduct.

"This is not a social media contest, this is not trial by video," Judge Dugan said.

In October, Commissioner Charles Ramsey called the incident "troubling" and fired Josey over the objections of the Fraternal Order of Police.

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