In a heartwarming display of community support, Mario’s Meat Market and Gourmet Deli in Middle Village, Queens, sold 2,217 chicken-cutlet sandwiches to raise funds for the family of slain NYPD cop Jonathan Diller. The deli’s initiative, which featured a special sandwich called “The NYPD,” garnered over $15,000 in donations. Owner Joe DiGangi announced that $11,085 was generated from the sandwich sales, while an additional $4,100 was collected through separate donations.
The proceeds will be given to Diller’s widow, Stephanie Diller, and their 1-year-old son, Ryan. The overwhelming response from the local community and people across the country has left DiGangi and his team at Mario’s Meat Market deeply grateful. A Go Fund Me page dedicated to the cause has also raised more than $1 million, and when combined with donations from individuals like Barstool Sports founder David Portnoy, the total amount released for the Diller family exceeds $2 million.
Queens Councilman Robert Holden, representing Middle Village, commended both Mario’s deli and the community for their charitable efforts in supporting the Diller family during these challenging times. Holden expressed pride in representing a community that stands behind law enforcement and comes together to provide assistance when it matters most.
Jonathan Diller, while on patrol in March, was tragically shot in the stomach by career criminal Guy Rivera. Diller and his partner had approached Rivera’s vehicle, which was parked in front of a bus stop on Mott Avenue in Far Rockaway. Rivera, a seasoned criminal with 21 prior arrests and a history of drug-related convictions, could face a lifetime behind bars if convicted on charges of murder, attempted murder, and criminal possession of a weapon.
Lindy Jones, who was in the driver’s seat during the incident, faces multiple charges of criminal possession of a weapon and could potentially be sentenced to 15 years in prison.
3 Responses
While it is commendable that Mario’s Meat Market and Gourmet Deli organized a fundraising event to support the family of a slain NYPD officer, it is important to consider the broader implications of such actions. While the intention may be to show support and solidarity, it is crucial to question why the same level of community support is not extended to other victims of violence or their families.
By focusing solely on supporting the family of a police officer, we inadvertently perpetuate the narrative that some lives are more valuable
This is such a touching story of community support! It’s amazing to see how a local business like Mario’s Meat Market and Gourmet Deli can come together to help a family in need. I would love to hear the author’s thoughts on the impact of such initiatives on both the community and the family involved. Do they believe that these acts of kindness can truly make a difference in the lives of those affected by tragedy?
The community support shown by Mario’s Meat Market and Gourmet Deli can be likened to a warm embrace during a cold winter. Just like a comforting hug, the sale of 2,217 chicken-cutlet sandwiches wraps the family of slain NYPD cop Jonathan Diller in love and financial assistance. It’s a beautiful reminder that in times of tragedy, the community can come together like a tight-knit family, providing warmth and support to those in need.