The New York Police Department’s Sergeants Benevolent Association has issued a scathing letter criticizing far-left Democratic leaders in New York City for their anti-police and soft-on-crime policies in the wake of the shooting death of Officer Jonathan Diller. The SBA President, Vincent Vallelong, urged these officials to stay away from Diller’s funeral, accusing them of posting politically motivated condolences on social media despite their support for movements to defund the police. Vallelong asserted that these politicians bear moral responsibility for Diller’s death and called their presence at the officer’s funeral a stain on his legacy.
Vallelong specifically called out City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, accusing them of detesting cops and lacking appreciation for the work that law enforcement officers do. He argued that these officials should not pretend to be grieving for Diller and should instead remain at home. Williams, a self-described democratic socialist, has previously advocated for defunding the police, while Adams has supported legislation that increases paperwork for police after public encounters. Vallelong accused these leaders of being blind to their own hatred and twisted ideology, which he believes have failed city residents and workers.
The SBA letter also criticized prosecutors for their part in contributing to what Vallelong deemed the destruction of civilized society in New York City. He asserted that many prosecutors would rather see the city burn and countless lives lost than admit to legislative mistakes and give the city a chance at survival or resurgence. The letter placed blame on officials who have declared war on the police, calling for these individuals to be investigated by an outside agency for their legislative missteps. The sentiment expressed in the letter mirrors a sense of frustration and anger towards those in positions of power who are seen as failing to prioritize public safety.
The shooting that resulted in Officer Diller’s death occurred during a stop in Far Rockaway, with the suspect Guy Rivera, a 34-year-old man with 21 prior arrests, accused of pulling the trigger. Rivera, who had numerous felonies on his record, was still in police custody at the hospital as of Thursday. Another individual in the vehicle, Lindy Jones, had a criminal history that included an attempted murder conviction and a pending felony firearms case from last year. Vallelong’s letter condemned these individuals and tied their actions to the failure of city leadership in maintaining public safety.
The letter comes in the context of a wider debate about policing and public safety in New York City, with tensions running high between law enforcement and certain elected officials who have advocated for defunding the police. The SBA’s strong words reflect the frustration felt within the police force and underscore the challenges facing officers as they navigate a complex and often dangerous environment. The focus on holding officials accountable for their actions and policies highlights the importance of addressing systemic issues in order to prevent further tragedies like the death of Officer Diller.
The funeral services for Officer Diller are set to take place in Massapequa, New York, with wake services beginning in the afternoon. As the city mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, the SBA’s letter serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and city leadership. The call for accountability and responsibility in the face of tragedy underscores the need for constructive dialogue and meaningful action to ensure the safety and well-being of both officers and the communities they serve.
