SEATTLE — City of Seattle will pay $2.6 million settle a lawsuit Accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination against senior police department leaders.
The settlement comes after four female officers accused former Police Chief Adrian Diaz, former Assistant Police Chief Dan Nelson and current Lt. John O’Neill of fostering a toxic culture within the department.
Kame Spencer, Valerie Carson, Judinna “Jean” Gulpan and Lauren Truscott allege they faced retaliation and a hostile work environment before filing tort claims in April 2024. Three of the women continue to work for the department; one has retired.
“We are pleased to see the city of Seattle being held accountable for the clear leadership failures of the previous administration. We hope the 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 incident behind them. They are committed to serving the City of Seattle and hope to have a successful career within the Seattle Police Department.”
O’Neal and Diaz are accused of engaging in grooming and predatory conduct. Nelson was accused of sex discrimination.
