New York Governor Kathy Hochul Leaves Slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller's Wake

Controversy at the Wake of Slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller

New York Governor Kathy Hochul sparked controversy on Friday when she made a brief appearance at the wake of slain New York City Police Officer Jonathan Diller, leaving just minutes after arriving at the Massapequa Funeral Home on Long Island.

Video Footage

Video footage showed Governor Hochul speaking with a man outside the funeral home before abruptly turning around and exiting, amidst the sound of clapping.

Union President's Criticism

The incident took place following a statement from the NYPD's Sergeants Benevolent Association President, Vincent Vallelong, who criticized the potential presence of elected officials at the funeral. Vallelong expressed, "I’m sure that many elected officials will attend PO Diller’s funeral, shed a few crocodile tears, and prominently seat themselves for a good photo opportunity. The sad reality is we don’t want them there."

He further elaborated, "Their presence is more than a distraction. It is a stain on the legacy of a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the scores of dedicated and committed public servants who will carry on his mission despite their constant criticism, cynicism, negativity, and frivolous accusations."

Former President's Tribute

Former President Trump had attended Diller’s wake the previous day, emphasizing the impact of the officer's tragic death. He remarked, "The Diller family will never be the same – you can never be the same, and we have to stop it. We have to get back to law and order."

Tragic Circumstances

Jonathan Diller, a three-year veteran of the NYPD, lost his life during a traffic stop in Queens earlier in the week. The 31-year-old father succumbed to injuries sustained when a violent ex-convict with 21 prior arrests allegedly shot him in the stomach as police approached the vehicle where the suspect was seated.

Despite the tragic loss, the funeral of Officer Diller has become an arena of controversy, with the presence of public officials being a subject of public debate and criticism.