Full Breakdown
Seattle Pays $2.6 Million to Settle Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Former Police Chief and Senior Officers
6/6/2026, 11:17:58 PM
Settlement Overview
In 2024 Seattle agreed to pay $2.6 million to settle a lawsuit by four SPD officers—Lauren Truscott, Valerie Carson, Kame Spencer, and Judinna “Jean” Gulpan—who alleged sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and a hostile work environment involving former Chief Adrian Diaz, Lieutenant John O’Neil, Assistant Chief Dan Nelson, and HR manager Rebecca McKechnie. Plaintiffs had sought $5 million.
Background
Claims emerged after a 2023 report and a 2024 review documenting sexism and harassment. SPD’s “30×30” plan to reach 30 percent female staff was cited. Lawsuit preceded Diaz’s removal, his replacement by interim Chief Sue Rahr and later Chief Shon Barnes, and an Inspector General probe into Diaz’s alleged relationship with chief-of-staff Jamie Tompkins, who now sues city.
Key Figures
Plaintiffs: Truscott (retired), Carson, Spencer, Gulpan. Defendants: former Chief Adrian Diaz, Lt. John O’Neil, Assistant Chief Dan Nelson, HR manager Rebecca McKechnie. Counsel: plaintiffs’ attorney Sumeer Singla; Diaz’s attorney Ted Buck; defense counsel Jacob Downs for Diaz and O’Neil.
Data & Statistics
Settlement: $2.6 million; claim: $5 million. Lt. O’Neil received $200,000 settlement in February 2025 for retaliation and discrimination claims. Three plaintiffs remain with SPD; Truscott retired.
Official Statements & Responses
The City Attorney’s Office said the settlement lets parties move forward without admitting wrongdoing. Diaz’s attorney Ted Buck called the allegations false. Defense lawyer Jacob Downs said city settled to avoid litigation costs, not because the claims were proven. SPD reiterated its commitment to a safe workplace.
Criticism & Opposition
Plaintiff attorney Sumeer Singla said the settlement falls short of cultural change, noting retaliation and blocked promotions, and doubted it will achieve the desired shift.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on filing date—some cite April 2024, others July 2024. Plaintiffs allege grooming and predatory conduct, yet Diaz and O’Neil were never deposed and no criminal charges were filed. Settlement’s lack of admission leaves factual disputes unresolved.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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,” — Sumeer Singla, Plaintiff’s Attorney
- “Lt. O’Neil and former Chief Diaz categorically deny the allegations made against them. We find it notable that the City chose to settle these cases for a substantial sum even though neither Lt. O’Neil nor former Chief Diaz was ever deposed during the litigation.” — Jacob Downs, Attorney for Diaz and O’Neil
What’s Next
Chief Shon Barnes has pledged to advance 30×30 gender-representation goal and monitor compliance with harassment policies. Ongoing litigation includes Jamie Tompkins’ pending lawsuit against the city.
