Retired Philadelphia Cop Indicted For Alleged Sex Assault

PHILADELPHIA – Federal authorities have indicted a former Philadelphia Police officer for sexually assaulting a woman while he was on duty in 2016.

U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Thomas O’Neill, 47, of Philadelphia, was charged Tuesday by indictment with one count of deprivation of rights under color of law.

According to the indictment, while on duty as a Philadelphia Police Officer, O'Neill sexually assaulted a woman on July 3, 2016. The indictment alleges that O’Neill, who is now retired, used a dangerous weapon in the course of the offense.

"Reducing violent crime in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is a top priority of my Office," McSwain said. "No matter who you are, if you commit a violent crime, we are committed to holding you accountable and keeping our community safe."

If convicted, O'Neill faces a maximum possible sentence of up to of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Philadelphia Police Department Internal Affairs Division, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michelle L. Morgan.

An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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