Background of the Case
Hicks filed suit in 2022, alleging that Philadelphia police officers fabricated evidence that led to his 2002 rape conviction. He spent 19 years in prison before his conviction was overturned.
The jury found the city and several officers liable and also concluded that it was more likely than not that Hicks did not commit the crime.
Judge Murphy said he will delay entry of final judgment while the court considers Hicks’ request for approximately $8.5 million in attorney fees and costs.
With the verdict now upheld, the case stands as a significant civil rights judgment against the city, subject to any potential appeals.
