Queens, New York – Lindy Jones, one of the individuals involved in the tragic killing of New York City police officer Jonathan Diller, faced illegal weapons charges on Wednesday. Jones tried to claim that the alleged shooter, Guy Rivera, was just a hitchhiker he picked up, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. During court proceedings, Queens Assistant District Attorney Gabriel Reale revealed that Jones insisted he did not know Rivera before allowing him to ride in his car, which was stopped by officers, including Diller.
Authorities found a second gun, a 9-millimeter, with its serial number scratched off, in the glove compartment of Jones’ car. This discovery led to Jones being arraigned on two counts each of criminal possession of a weapon in the second and third degrees. Despite Jones’ claims of innocence, he acknowledged the presence of the additional firearm to the arresting officers at the 101st Precinct.
Jones, who has a criminal history and is known by the nickname “Killa,” was behind the wheel of the vehicle when the tragic incident unfolded outside a T-Mobile store in Far Rockaway. Rivera, a 34-year-old ex-convict, refused to comply with the officers’ instructions and instead pulled out a gun, fatally shooting Diller, a 31-year-old officer and father.
As Diller’s partner returned fire, Rivera was wounded and remains hospitalized. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz assured that Rivera would face charges related to Diller’s death as soon as possible. During Jones’ arraignment, which was attended by over 200 police officers, the judge remanded him into custody as a packed courtroom listened to the proceedings.
Patrick Hendry, the President of the Police Benevolent Association, expressed gratitude for Jones’s remand, emphasizing his belief that Jones deserved to be held accountable for his actions. As investigations continue, authorities are committed to seeking justice for Officer Diller’s family, colleagues, and the community he served with dedication and courage.
Jones, facing up to 15 years in prison if convicted, has a court date set for Friday. However, with a prior gun-related case pending from April, he could potentially face an additional 15-year sentence. Despite his claims of being an innocent bystander, evidence suggests a deeper involvement in the tragic events that resulted in the loss of Officer Diller’s life.
In the aftermath of the fatal shooting, the law enforcement community rallied together to support Diller’s family. The emotional impact of the incident was evident as witnesses described the somber scene outside the courtroom, emphasizing the loss felt by those who knew and worked alongside Diller. Throughout the proceedings, the deep sense of loss and commitment to seeking justice for Diller’s family and honoring his memory was palpable.