Nearly 100 Cops Pack Court for Murder Trial of NYPD Hero's Killer

Guy Rivera, a career criminal, is accused of gunning down officer Jonathan Diller during a 2024 traffic stop in Far Rockaway.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Nearly 100 New York police officers packed a Queens courthouse on Tuesday as the murder trial of Guy Rivera, the career criminal accused of killing NYPD officer Jonathan Diller, got underway. Diller, who left behind a wife and infant son, was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway in 2024.

Why it matters

The large police presence highlights the strong support for Diller, who was seen as a hero, and the community's desire for justice in his killing. The case also raises questions about repeat offenders and public safety, as Rivera had 21 prior arrests before the alleged murder.

The details

Rivera, 35, is accused of shooting Diller, an on-duty officer, during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway on March 25, 2024. The phalanx of cops stared down Rivera as the trial began, marking the largest show of support yet for the slain cop.

  • The murder trial of Guy Rivera began on March 10, 2026.
  • Diller was shot and killed during a traffic stop on March 25, 2024.

The players

Guy Rivera

A 35-year-old career criminal accused of gunning down NYPD officer Jonathan Diller during a traffic stop in 2024.

Jonathan Diller

An NYPD officer who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway in 2024, leaving behind a wife and infant son.

Patrick Hendry

The president of the NYPD Police Benevolent Association, who spoke outside the courthouse in support of Diller.

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What they’re saying

“Jonathan Diller was a talented person who could have succeeded at any profession that he would have chosen. But he knew he had a mission in life – to help people and save lives. And he did that every day as a New York City Police officer.”

— Patrick Hendry, NYPD PBA President (nypost.com)

“He should be behind those bars for the rest of his life.”

— Patrick Hendry, NYPD PBA President (nypost.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow Guy Rivera out on bail during the trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the strong support for fallen NYPD officers like Jonathan Diller, as well as ongoing concerns about repeat offenders and public safety in New York City.