City to pay street musician $27,500

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - December 11, 2007 -- Philadelphia has reached an agreement that is music to a street musician's ears.

The city has settled a lawsuit filed by 66-year-old Felix Wilkins. Wilkins says his arrest in March for playing the flute on a corner violated his civil rights.

The agreement requires the city to inform police that playing, singing, and soliciting money in a public place are protected by the First Amendment.

In turn, it says those who do so must abide by a city ordinance that bars musicians from playing on the street between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m., among other restrictions.

The settlement, approved by a federal judge, also says the city will pay Wilkins $27,500.

Information from: The Philadelphia Inquirer, http://www.philly.com

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