Woman allegedly forced to strip; 2 officers charged

PHILADELPHIA - October 23, 2013

Former Police Officer Joseph Harvey and Officer Sean Cahill, both of Philadelphia, were arrested on Wednesday.

According to the indictment, on October 8, 2009, Harvey used his power as a police officer to order the victim to remove all of her clothing and sit naked while he pleasured himself.

The indictment goes on to claim that when questioned about the incident, Officer Cahill falsely claimed to have been with Harvey at the time, telling FBI investigators that Harvey was never alone with the woman in an alleged attempt to discredit the victim.

Harvey, 39, is charged with deprivation of civil rights under color of law. If convicted, he faces a maximum term of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.

Officer Cahill, 34, is charged with making a material false statement. If convicted, Cahill faces a maximum term of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, up to three years supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Cahill, a 10-year veteran assigned to the 24th District, has been suspended for thirty days with the intent to dismiss.

Harvey was a 7-year veteran, previously assigned to the 24th District.

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