July 6, 2025 New York City, NY – A decision by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch to retain a police officer who fatally shot an unarmed man nearly six years ago has sparked immediate and fierce condemnation from top City Council leaders. The move, which saw Commissioner Tisch overturn a departmental judge's recommendation for termination, is being called "egregious" and a blow to public trust.
The controversy centers on Officer Jonathan Rivera, who, on October 17, 2019, shot and killed Allan Feliz, 31, during a traffic stop in Washington Heights. Feliz was initially pulled over for an alleged seatbelt violation.
A Reversal of Justice?
Last year, NYPD Judge Rosemarie Maldonado, presiding over a departmental trial, concluded that Rivera "needlessly" fired at Feliz. This finding was consistent with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), the city's police watchdog, which also found fault with Rivera's actions. However, Commissioner Tisch, who holds the final authority in such matters, ruled on Thursday that Rivera acted "reasonably," believing Feliz's actions during a scuffle with officers posed a threat.
This decision by Commissioner Tisch follows a previous determination by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who found insufficient evidence to prove Rivera's use of deadly force was unlawful.
Council Leaders Demand Accountability
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala wasted no time in issuing a joint statement, expressing their "deep disappointment" in Commissioner Tisch. They urged her to "reject the corrupt status quo practices of the past" and to terminate Officer Rivera, who has since been promoted to lieutenant.
"This egregious decision betrays the public trust and accountability that is necessary to advance public safety," the council leaders asserted. They also offered their condolences to Feliz's family, stating, "Our hearts are with Allan Feliz’s family during this painful time…"
