A man convicted in the fatal shooting of NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller was sentenced to 115 years to life in prison, concluding a closely watched case in New York City more than a year after the incident.
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Guy Rivera received the sentence in Queens after a jury found him guilty of first-degree aggravated manslaughter, attempted murder, and multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon. He was acquitted of the top charge of murder.
The sentencing drew a large crowd, prompting officials to move the proceedings to the largest available courtroom in Kew Gardens. The judge ordered the sentences on multiple counts to run consecutively, effectively ensuring Rivera will spend the rest of his life in prison.
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During the hearing, family members of Diller addressed the court, describing the lasting impact of his death. His widow, Stephanie Diller, reflected on her loss, stating, “Every moment brings me back to that day, my life changed forever.” She emphasized the impact on their young son, noting he will grow up without his father’s presence, protection, and guidance.
Diller’s mother also delivered an emotional statement, saying, “For 31 years, I had the privilege and honor of being Jonathan’s mother, before my youngest child was so cruelly taken from me.”
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Prosecutors argued that Rivera pulled out a concealed handgun and shot Diller during a routine traffic stop in Queens on March 25, 2024, after ignoring police commands. They maintained the shooting was intentional. Defense attorneys countered that Rivera did not deliberately target the officer and argued the shooting was not intentional, a key issue during the trial.
Rivera declined to testify. His legal team has indicated plans to appeal the conviction and sentence. Authorities also confirmed that a second suspect, Lindy Jones, is awaiting trial in connection with the case.
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