The GOP lawmakers specifically targeted Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, who has been resistant to criminal justice reforms, including tougher penalties for criminals who assault retail workers, as part of the state budget.
Assemblyman Mike Reilly, a former NYPD Lieutenant, emphasized the need for punitive measures and government action in addressing crime.
The proposed bills by the Assembly minority focus on Guy Rivera, the individual charged with Diller’s murder, who had a history of arrests and convictions.
The GOP’s policy proposals include reinstating the death penalty for cop killers, remanding individuals charged with illegal firearm possession, making assaults on police officers hate crimes, allowing bail for gun crimes, and increasing penalties for murder charges.
State Senator Alexis Weik criticized Heastie for his stance on penalties not deterring crime, especially in light of Diller’s murder.
Heastie defended his position on penalties not being a deterrent to crime, stating that different ideas are being considered to address retail theft.
Jonathan Diller was posthumously promoted to detective.
