Gov. Kathy Hochul found herself in a tense moment when an emotional mourner approached her as she left a short visit to the wake for slain NYPD hero Jonathan Diller. The unidentified man, dressed sharply in a black suit, appeared visibly agitated as he spoke to the Democratic lawmaker. Bystanders outside the venue applauded the mourner's actions as the governor quietly made her way back to her car.
Hochul, who had sought permission from the NYPD, the NYPD Police Benevolent Association, and the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association to attend, arrived at the Massapequa Funeral Home on Long Island for the second day of viewing around 1:45 p.m. During her time at the event, Hochul had what witnesses described as an "animated" conversation with Diller’s 29-year-old widow, Stephanie. One witness said it looked like Stephanie was giving Hochul a piece of her mind, indicating a tense exchange. Hochul left shortly after, according to one account.
However, another source contradicted this, stating that they saw the governor engaging in a "short, respectful conversation" with the grieving family before leaving. This source mentioned that Hochul was inside for about 10 to 15 minutes, describing her visit as brief and respectful.
Some sources initially believed that Hochul was asked to leave, reflecting the cool reception she received. It was reported that Hochul discussed "policy" with the family, which some believe may have included progressive policies like bail reform, which have been criticized in relation to Diller's death.
The brief stop by Hochul came a day after former President Donald Trump paid his respects at the wake, staying for around 40 minutes. Trump, who said he was invited by the family, spent time talking to Stephanie and even met the couple’s young son, Ryan. A photo shared by Diller’s brother-in-law showed Trump embracing a woman in the family line-up, with the caption “No words needed.”
Trump praised Diller as a "great officer, top of his class," and emphasized the need for strength and toughness to prevent such tragedies in the future. He expressed his belief that something positive must come from the tragedy, highlighting the importance of addressing issues like recidivism.
In the days following Diller’s killing, Hochul faced criticism as a symbol of controversial bail reform, which some blame for the increase in recidivism. Despite her attempts to amend the reforms, critics argue that they have failed to address the root causes that allow violent criminals back on the streets.
The main suspect in Diller’s murder, 34-year-old Guy Rivera, has a lengthy criminal history with at least 21 prior arrests and a five-year prison sentence. Rivera was in a car driven by 41-year-old Lindy Jones, who had previously been convicted of attempted murder but was released on bail for an illegal gun charge last spring.
Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain, criticized Albany for its approach to bail reform and recidivism, emphasizing the need for a more focused effort to address these issues.
Ahead of the weekend services, Sergeants Benevolent Association President Vincent J. Vallelong issued a scathing letter warning City Council members not to attend. Vallelong specifically mentioned Adrienne Adams, Jumaane Williams, and others, accusing them of disdain for law enforcement and suggesting their presence would be disrespectful to Diller's legacy.
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