Eddie Matos, a cop-killer serving a 25-years-to-life sentence for the 1989 murder of NYPD Officer Anthony Dwyer, has been denied parole for a seventh time. Dwyer’s sister, Maureen Brisette, expressed relief at the decision but also disappointment that they have to face another parole hearing in less than two months. The family is hopeful that the parole board will continue to keep Matos behind bars.
Despite a split decision by a two-person parole panel in April 2023, a three-person panel voted to keep Matos in prison. However, this decision was nullified due to a technicality, leading to the board’s most recent vote to deny parole. Matos will have another chance for parole in June, which has been met with outrage by the Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry, who emphasized the continuous pain experienced by Dwyer’s family as they fight to keep his killer behind bars.
The tragic events that led to Dwyer’s death occurred on October 17, 1989, when Matos and three accomplices robbed a McDonald’s restaurant in New York City. Dwyer, who responded to the scene with two other officers, chased Matos to the roof, where he was pushed down a 25-foot air shaft by the perpetrator. Matos was apprehended the following day and subsequently convicted of second-degree murder, leading to a 25-years-to-life prison sentence. Dwyer’s family has condemned Matos for his heinous crime and wishes for him to remain imprisoned.
The parole denial and ongoing legal proceedings have brought back painful memories for Dwyer’s family, who have been vocal in their opposition to Matos’ release. The parole board’s decision, while a relief, also signifies the recurrent nightmare that the family must endure to ensure that Matos remains behind bars. With the next parole hearing approaching in June, the family has vowed to continue fighting to keep Dwyer’s killer in prison, emphasizing the profound impact his death has had on their lives.
Matos’ repeated attempts at parole have reignited public outrage over the murder of Officer Dwyer and the prospect of his killer being released from prison. The unresolved trauma and grief experienced by the Dwyer family serve as a reminder of the devastating consequences of Matos’ actions. The parole board’s responsibility to consider the safety and well-being of the community is paramount in deciding whether to grant or deny Matos’ release. The continued denial of his parole reflects the board’s commitment to justice for Dwyer and his family.
As the legal battle to keep Matos behind bars continues, the memory of Officer Anthony Dwyer lives on through the advocacy and perseverance of his family and the law enforcement community. Reflecting on Dwyer’s life as a dedicated officer, volunteer firefighter, and devout Catholic, his legacy serves as a testament to the impact he had on those around him. Despite the passing of time, the wounds caused by his tragic death remain fresh, underscoring the importance of ensuring that those responsible for such crimes face consequences for their actions.
