New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul faced backlash after being denied the opportunity to speak at memorial services for slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller in Massapequa Park. Hochul was confronted by mourners outside the funeral home and was told, 'his blood is on your hands.' The family members expressed their anger towards Hochul, emphasizing the need for changing laws that they believe led to Officer Diller's death.
Former Rep. Lee Zeldin criticized Hochul's actions, stating that it was disrespectful and self-serving for her to push her way into the funeral proceedings. Zeldin highlighted the incident as a reflection of New York liberals' soft-on-crime policies, which have garnered public outrage in various instances.
Additionally, Hochul and other New York officials were reportedly given a cold reception at the wake, with both Hochul and New York State Attorney General Letitia James being rejected by the family when they requested to speak at the funeral. The incident further fueled frustrations among New Yorkers, who are increasingly dissatisfied with the state's leadership and priorities.
The situation was contrasted with the leniency shown towards the murder suspect, Guy Rivera, who had a lengthy criminal record but remained on the streets. This contrast highlighted the perceived disparity in the criminal justice system's treatment of suspects and offenders.
Hochul, in response to criticisms, blamed judges for releasing potentially dangerous suspects without bail, indicating a need for better training among judges to align with the changes in the justice system. The incident at Officer Diller's memorial services underscored the deep-seated frustrations among New Yorkers regarding crime policies and leadership in the state.
