On Tuesday, actress Susan Sarandon shared a post on Twitter comparing NYPD officers to fascists while they gathered in Manhattan for the funeral of slain Detective Jason Rivera.
The original tweet, shared by Sarandon, showed a photo of thousands of cops who had congregated to honor the fallen detective. Words displayed over the photo read: “I’m gonna tell my kids this is what fascism looks like.”
The original post also included the hashtag “#abolishthepolice.”
Building on the original tweet, Sarandon wrote, “So, if all these cops weren’t needed for CRIME that day, doesn’t that mean they aren’t needed ANY day?”
In spite of Sarandon’s comments, the messages from the men and women in blue featured in Sarandon’s post were overwhelmingly positive in honoring their fallen brother.
“We came together today in grief to honor our hero, now-Detective First Grade Jason Rivera. We came from near & far, standing shoulder-to-shoulder as a sea of blue. In silence, our unity said: We love you brother, we will always be here for your family — and we will #NeverForget,” NYPD first Deputy Commissioner Edward Caban tweeted along with photos of the procession.
The official Twitter account of the New York Police Department also honored Detective Rivera’s legacy.
“A sea of blue lined Fifth Avenue shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow first responders from around the country as we rendered a final salute to Detective Jason Rivera,” the NYPD tweeted. “With tears in our eyes we bid farewell and make a solemn vow to #NeverForget his legacy and sacrifice to this city.”
“Though our hearts were heavy as we said goodbye to Det. Jason Rivera, that sadness was met with immense gratitude at the sea of first responders & New Yorkers who came to honor our fallen hero,” New York City Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell tweeted. “Whether it was on 5th Ave, the overpasses or @FDNY hoisting flags—the NYPD thanks you.”
Last month, Rivera was fatally shot while responding to a domestic call in Harlem. NYPD Officer Wilbert Mora was also fatally wounded during the incident and his public funeral was held Wednesday.
A neighbor who heard the shooting said he heard “around 10 to 15 shots,” according to CBS New York. He said there were so many shots that he initially thought they were fireworks.
“Tonight, we mourn the loss of a hero officer — a son, husband, and friend. Only 22 years old, Police Officer Jason Rivera was murdered in the line of duty,” NYPD News tweeted. “We vow to #NeverForget Jason as his fellow Finest vow to honor his tremendous legacy of service & the ultimate sacrifice.”
