(Rochester, N.Y.) - They tended his wounds when he was shot, and now are praying for him.
From young recruits fresh out of the academy to seasoned police officers and high-ranking officials, police from agencies around the Rochester area came to court on Wednesday at Tyquan Rivera's arraignment to show support for Police Officer Anthony DiPonzio.
"We're family and blood is thicker than water; when you have so many brothers and sisters in blue they come together to support each other," said Captain Mark Case of the RPD. "It's important to send a message that we stick together; we're not going to tolerate this, against police or any citizen of Rochester."
Police are always there for each other, backing up their fellow officers as exemplified on Saturday, Case said.
This show of force was an important reminder to the DiPonzio family that police and the community are pulling for DiPonzio.
Frank Umbrino was part of the team whose quick reaction helped save DiPonzio’s life.
"I can tell you right now we have talked to Tony and obviously he cannot talk, but he has responded [to] the support he has from hundreds of people behind him that are pulling for him. He responds. He knows prayers will help him get better."
Rochester police are spending many hours at the hospital, after duty, in between shifts and any chance they can. They need to see DiPonzio, to reassure him, they are there.
They say he is making progress and knows everyone is behind him.
He remains in guarded condition at Rochester General Hospital.
