Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has responded to criticism following her attendance at the wake of NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller, who was tragically killed during a traffic stop. Despite facing harsh words from an attendee who told her, “his blood is on your hands,” Hochul stated, “I would do it again, and that’s my job,” emphasizing her role in offering condolences and support to the bereaved family.
Hochul, who made it a point to attend Diller’s wake on Long Island, expressed her understanding of the family’s outrage and the broader community’s frustration over recurring crimes committed by individuals with a history of offenses. She acknowledged the complexities of the situation, including the challenges in reforming bail laws, which have been a point of contention in addressing crime rates and recidivism.
The governor’s participation in the wake and her subsequent comments reflect the tension surrounding New York’s bail reform laws and their perceived impact on law enforcement and public safety. Hochul highlighted her administration’s efforts to enhance safety measures, including deploying National Guardsmen and additional police forces to the subway system, as part of her commitment to reducing crime in the city.
The tragedy of Detective Diller’s death and the ensuing discussions on bail reform and public safety underscore the ongoing debate over how best to balance justice and security in New York, as officials, law enforcement, and communities seek solutions to these pressing issues.