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Bodycam Footage Appears to Show Accused Smirking as Detective Testifies in Diller Murder Trial

The testimony and video sharpen a courtroom fight over intent versus accident in the shooting.

Overview

  • Jurors saw body‑worn camera footage that a testifying officer said showed Guy Rivera on the ground in handcuffs appearing to smile moments after the shooting.
  • Detective Derval Whyte became emotional on the stand and said the fatal shot came at lightning speed, with his video capturing officers trying to save Detective Jonathan Diller.
  • Diller’s widow, Stephanie Diller, attended proceedings but left the courtroom before the graphic footage was played for the jury.
  • Rivera has pleaded not guilty to charges including first‑degree murder, second‑degree murder, attempted first‑degree murder and weapons counts in Queens Supreme Court.
  • Defense lawyers contend the gun fired accidentally during a struggle with Detective Sasha Rosen, a claim prosecutors dispute as they continue presenting their case.