In a striking statement, the Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) of the NYPD made a bold request to left-leaning Democratic politicians in New York City, urging them to refrain from attending the funeral of Officer Jonathan Diller. The 31-year-old officer tragically lost his life after being shot by a repeat offender with a long criminal history, sparking a wave of grief and outrage within the law enforcement community and beyond.
SBA President Vincent Vallelong issued a letter to the union’s members, expressing frustration with city leaders who have promoted anti-police sentiments and policies perceived as lenient on crime. Vallelong’s letter conveyed a sense of betrayal by these politicians, who he believes have contributed to an environment that undermines the safety and effectiveness of the police force.
The incident that led to Officer Diller’s death involved a violent confrontation with an individual known for his extensive criminal record, including 21 previous arrests. This tragic event has reignited discussions around policing policies, criminal justice reform, and the relationship between law enforcement and elected officials in New York City.
As preparations for Officer Diller’s memorial services were underway, some NYPD officers assigned to attend the event were reportedly redirected to provide security for a high-profile fundraiser attended by President Biden and former Presidents Clinton and Obama. This move, juxtaposed with the presence of former President Trump at Diller’s wake, highlighted the political and social tensions surrounding the case.
Vallelong’s letter did not mince words, accusing certain city politicians of hypocrisy and insincerity in their dealings with the police department. By specifically calling out City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Vallelong underscored the deep divisions between the NYPD and some segments of the city’s political leadership.
The union’s stance reflects broader concerns within the law enforcement community regarding the impact of certain policies and rhetoric on police morale and public safety. Vallelong’s assertion that anti-police council members bear moral responsibility for the challenges facing the NYPD underscores the urgency with which he and others view the need for a shift in the city’s approach to law enforcement and public safety.
As the city mourns Officer Diller and grapples with the complex issues of policing and public safety, the SBA’s message serves as a poignant reminder of the tensions that exist between law enforcement and certain political figures. The upcoming funeral and the discussions it may provoke could further illuminate the deep-seated issues at play in New York City’s ongoing debate over how best to protect and serve its residents.