Queens, NY — The man convicted of killing NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller and attempting to murder another officer will spend the rest of his life in prison, prosecutors announced this week. Guy Rivera received a sentence of 115 years to life for the March 2024 shooting in Far Rockaway that left Diller dead and narrowly spared Sergeant Sasha Rosen.
The sentencing follows a jury verdict delivered April 1, which found Rivera guilty of first-degree aggravated manslaughter, first-degree attempted murder, and multiple weapons charges after a three-week trial.
Shooting claimed officer’s life, nearly took another
Prosecutors said Rivera ignored repeated lawful commands before opening fire with an illegal weapon, fatally shooting Diller. He then turned the gun on Sgt. Rosen and pulled the trigger, but the weapon malfunctioned, preventing further bloodshed.
The attack unfolded in Far Rockaway, a Queens neighborhood, and quickly drew citywide attention due to the loss of an active-duty officer.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said the sentence ensures Rivera will never be released.
“This sentence ensures that the defendant will never be free to terrorize the streets of New York City again,” Katz said in a statement.
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Key Points
• Guy Rivera sentenced to 115 years to life for killing NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller
• Jury convicted him of aggravated manslaughter and attempted murder on April 1
• Prosecutors say he also tried to shoot a second officer, but the gun jammed
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Remembering Detective Jonathan Diller
Diller’s death left a deep impact across the NYPD and the broader New York City community. Officials described him as a dedicated officer committed to protecting the public.
“He was a father, a husband and a son,” Katz said. “He was also a dedicated member of the NYPD, who put on a uniform every day to protect our city.”
The case became a focal point in ongoing discussions about violence against police officers and illegal firearms in New York City.
Trial and conviction
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Rivera acted with intent when he fired at officers and attempted to shoot a second time. The jury ultimately convicted him on the most serious charges, including attempted murder in the first degree.
The sentencing structure—115 years to life—reflects multiple convictions combined under New York law, ensuring Rivera will remain incarcerated for the rest of his life.
What happens next
Rivera has been sentenced and will serve his term in state prison. No further court proceedings have been announced, and the case is considered closed following sentencing.