Four female officers accused former police Chief Adrian Diaz, former assistant police Chief Dan Nelson and Lieutenant John O’Neil of fostering a toxic culture.
SEATTLE — The City of Seattle is paying $2.6 million to settle a lawsuit that accused top police department leaders of sexual harassment and discrimination.
The settlement comes after four female officers accused former police Chief Adrian Diaz, former assistant police Chief Dan Nelson and current Lieutenant John O’Neil of fostering a toxic culture within the department.
Kame Spencer, Valerie Carson, Judinna “Jean” Gulpan, and Lauren Truscott claimed they faced retaliation and a hostile work environment before filing a tort claim in April of 2024. Three of the women continue to work for the department; one has retired.
“We are happy to see the City of Seattle take accountability for what was a clear lapse in leadership by the previous administration. We hope new leadership will improve working conditions for everyone within the Seattle Police Department,” said Sumeer Singla, one of the attorneys representing the plaintiffs. “Our clients are pleased to put this episode behind them. They are committed to serving the City of Seattle and hope for successful careers within the Seattle Police Department.”
O’Neil and Diaz were accused of engaging in grooming and predatory behavior. Nelson was accused of gender discrimination.
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