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Rivera Acquitted of Murder
Rivera was acquitted of first-degree murder but convicted of lesser charges including aggravated manslaughter.
“The jury acquitting the shooter of the top charge of first-degree murder and settling on manslaughter”
One juror initially dissented before the jury reached unanimous agreement after further deliberations.
The trial included emotional testimony and graphic body camera footage capturing Diller's final moments.
Dispute Over Intent
Defense argued the weapon discharged accidentally during a struggle with another officer.
Prosecutors contended Rivera deliberately pulled a loaded, chambered gun with the safety off.
Judge Aloise allowed the jury to consider aggravated manslaughter, which requires intent to cause serious injury.
Jury Dynamics
Juror No. 5 said they did not agree with the verdict, forcing the jury back into deliberations.
“One juror yelled out, disagreeing with the acquittal of the murder charge”
Two hours later, the jury returned the same verdict unanimously.
Jurors requested to review body camera footage multiple times during deliberations.
PBA and Family Reaction
The PBA said Diller's family is still devastated.
NYPD Commissioner Tisch expressed disappointment over the acquittal.
Diller's widow faced raising their young son without his father.