The New York City Sergeants Benevolent Association issued a warning to city council members to skip the funeral of slain Officer Jonathan Diller and accused them of being complicit in his death, which they described as “completely avoidable”. SBA President Vincent J. Vallelong expressed his belief that council members who attend the funeral would only shed “crocodile tears” and take advantage of the event for a “good photo opportunity”. Vallelong blamed these council members for the increase in violence and heartbreak in the city due to their stance against public safety.
Officer Jonathan Diller, a 31-year-old father, was tragically shot during a traffic stop in Queens by career criminal Guy Rivera, aged 34. The shocking incident has left the community devastated and mourning the loss of a dedicated police officer. Vallelong expressed his anger towards those who have disregarded the laws and systems, allowing criminals to become bolder and more brazen in their actions. The SBA president highlighted the impact of the council members’ comments on Diller’s death, describing them as hollow and insincere.
Vallelong’s frustration and condemnation of the city council members were driven by the belief that their actions, or lack thereof, have contributed to the rise in crime and the tragic loss of Officer Diller’s life. He emphasized the need for strong leadership and support for law enforcement to combat the escalating violence in the city, rather than policies that hinder police officers and embolden criminals. Vallelong’s warning to council members reflects a broader concern within the law enforcement community about the challenges and risks faced by police officers in their line of duty.
The SBA’s message to city council members serves as a rallying call for unity and support for law enforcement in the face of rising crime and violence in New York City. Vallelong’s statement denounces the council members who have opposed public safety measures, attributing them to the tragic death of Officer Diller and the spate of violence in the city. The funeral of Officer Diller is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in protecting their communities and the need for effective policies and support to ensure their safety and well-being.
The tense relationship between law enforcement and city council members underscores the challenges and complexities of maintaining public safety in New York City. The SBA’s warning highlights the deep-seated issues within the city’s political landscape, which affect the morale and effectiveness of police officers on the ground. Officer Diller’s death has reignited debates about policing and public safety in the city, prompting calls for greater respect and support for law enforcement officials who put their lives on the line every day to protect their communities. The funeral of Officer Diller is a somber occasion that sheds light on the risks and sacrifices faced by police officers in their duty to uphold the law and ensure the safety of all residents.
