Files regarding Amazon HQ2 bid and arrangements (Queens Borough President's Office)
| Multi Request | Files regarding Amazon HQ2 bid and arrangements |
| Submitted | Feb. 7, 2019 |
| Est. Completion | None |
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Communications
From: Liam Knox
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the New York Freedom of Information Law, I hereby request the following records:
A copy of all files relating to New York's bid to host Amazon's second headquarters in Long Island City from 2015-present, both before and after successfully receiving the bid. I am looking for any correspondences between agency/office employees and Amazon employees regarding the bid; any internal correspondences about the bid; any communications with constituents regarding the second headquarters; any memos, correspondences or other documentation of the stipulations or concessions associated with hosting the second headquarters; and any other files that might be related to Amazon's second headquarters and the state's offer to host it.
I request that I be properly classified as a news media requester. I am an intern for MuckRock, and I am requesting this information in that editorial capacity. MuckRock is widely known for its investigative work as well as historical pieces based on public records requests.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 5 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
Liam Knox
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Mr. Knox,
The Queens Borough President's Office is in receipt of your FOIL request dated February 7, 2019. Our office is in the process of determining whether there are responsive records and will contact you within twenty business days.
Best regards,
Eileen Boland
Eileen Boland / FOIL OFFICER
T 718-286-2872 E eboland@queensbp.org<mailto:eboland@queensbp.org> W www.queensbp.org<http://www.queensbp.org>
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz / 120-55 Queens Boulevard/ Kew Gardens, NY 11424
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Mr. Knox,
Our Records Access Officer is currently out of the office, so I am responding to your request for an update. Our office is still in the process of identifying and reviewing records responsive to your request. We expect to be able to fulfill your request within an additional twenty business days. Thank you.
Best regards,
Allan
Allan Swisher | Acting General Counsel
T 1.718.286.2880 E aswisher@queensbp.org<mailto:aswisher@queensbp.org> W www.queensbp.org<http://www.queensbp.org/>
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
[cid:qbp_sig_facebook-icon_7cefe8ed-43ca-4b0b-97a1-b2db34d5cfe9111.jpg]<https://www.facebook.com/Queensbpkatz>[cid:qbp_sig_twittericon_94b6cb42-bf52-438a-b28d-067d401d2f51111.jpg]<https://twitter.com/melindakatz>[cid:qbp_sig_websiteicon_97dd19e5-1ba9-4fda-9a1b-2a47f1dcc441111.jpg]<http://www.queensbp.org/>[cid:qbp_sig_flickricon_3d514363-1c84-49ab-9eb0-ac79a26355cb111.jpg]<https://www.flickr.com/photos/129440993@N08/albums>[cid:qbp_sig_youtubeicon_3a18b5e4-4472-41aa-a719-193982cb7747111.jpg]<https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzo6Xh57lrQnVE94OJ_gLPg>
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following New York Freedom of Information Law request, copied below, and originally submitted on Feb. 7, 2019. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - August 16, 2019
NEARLY 900 NEW YORKERS ATTEND AVIATION JOB FAIR
Wednesday’s aviation job fair at Borough Hall — co-sponsored by Borough President Katz, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Council for Airport Opportunity — saw a remarkable turnout, as hundreds of people descended on Kew Gardens to hear from 28 different companies about the vast array of job openings available at both LaGuardia and Kennedy Airports. The job fair comes as Queens is in the midst of a combined $21 billion capital redevelopment of its two airports, creating extensive economic opportunities for borough residents and businesses alike.
HONORING 73 YEARS OF INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE
This Thursday marked 73 years since India gained its independence from Great Britain, a holiday Queens families celebrated in style through song, dance, food, speeches, awards and more this week at Borough President Katz’s annual Indian Independence Day commemoration.
QUEENS CELEBRATES PAKISTAN’S INDEPENDENCE DAY
It was an evening of vibrant cultural performances, authentic Pakistani cuisine, awards and more at Borough Hall on Aug. 8 as families from across Queens joined Borough President Katz in celebrating Pakistan’s Independence Day and honoring the borough’s growing Pakistani community.
ENJOYING SOME CLASSIC TUNES AT FORT TOTTEN
Hundreds of families flocked to Fort Totten on Aug. 11 for a summer afternoon of classic rock and pop courtesy of Alive N Kickin’ as part of Borough President Katz’s free annual Katz Concert Series. The series rolls into Cambria Heights next Sunday at 5pm for a funk and R&B show courtesy of The Bartlett Contemporaries at Cambria Heights Playground.
DONATE BACKPACKS AND SUPPLIES THROUGH AUG. 28
Following on the heels of last year’s successful initiative, as seen above, Borough President Katz and the Coalition for the Homeless have teamed up to launch their sixth annual Project: Back to School backpack and school supply donation drive at Borough Hall for homeless children. Through Aug. 28, backpacks and supplies such as pencils, binders, notebooks and more can be placed in the box in the lobby of Borough Hall just inside the main entrance. Donations are anonymous and not tax-deductible.
---
UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
KATZ CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS: BARTLETT CONTEMPORARIES (Queens Funk: Bebop to Hip-Hop)
Sun Aug 18 at 5:00pm @ Cambria Heights Playground, Francis Lewis Boulevard and 121st Avenue between 219th and 222nd Streets in Cambria Heights
KATZ CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS: DR. K'S MOTOWN REVUE (Motown Cover Band)
Sun Aug 25 at 5:00pm @ O'Donohue Park Bandshell, Seagirt Boulevard between Beach 17th and Beach 19th Streets in Far Rockaway
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Thu Sept 12 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Sept 16 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Sept 17 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Sept 19 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Oct 29 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - August 23, 2019
TOWN HALL ON NEW “PUBLIC CHARGE” RULE: SEPT. 17
Borough President Katz and the New York Immigration Coalition will host a Queens Town Hall on the new “Public Charge” rule at 5:30pm on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Queens Borough Hall to discuss the potential impacts of the federal government’s new rule significantly expanding the criteria for who can be labeled a public charge. Under the new policy, which is slated to go into effect on Oct. 15, pending an ongoing legal challenge, immigrants who participate or are seen as likely to participate in federal public benefit programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid or Section 8 housing assistance could be denied permanent legal residency. Borough President Katz has repeatedly blasted the proposal, which would callously force immigrant families to choose between legal residency and food on the table, medical care or a roof over their head.
SUPPORTING QUEENS TSA EMPLOYEES
TSA Deputy Federal Security Director Matthew McKeon (l.) and Assistant Federal Security Director for Screening Joseph Madden (r.) of LaGuardia Airport recently presented Borough President Katz with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her support for TSA workers who went unpaid during the 35-day federal government shutdown last December and January. On Jan. 22, Borough President Katz partnered with Lessing’s Cafe and Blumenfeld Development Group to provide free lunches to 225 TSA employees assigned to LaGuardia Airport.
BRINGING THE FUNK TO CAMBRIA HEIGHTS
It was an afternoon of funk and R&B in Cambria Heights on Aug. 18 courtesy of The Bartlett Contemporaries, who played the penultimate show of Borough President Katz’s free annual Katz Concert Series. The final performance of the summer series is set for this Sunday, Aug. 25, at O’Donohue Park in Far Rockaway, as Dr. K’s Motown Revue will take the stage at 5pm.
DONATE BACKPACKS AND SUPPLIES THROUGH AUG. 28
Following on the heels of last year’s successful initiative, as seen above, Borough President Katz and the Coalition for the Homeless have teamed up to launch their sixth annual Project: Back to School backpack and school supply donation drive at Borough Hall for homeless children. Through Aug. 28, backpacks and supplies such as pencils, binders, notebooks and more can be placed in the box in the lobby of Borough Hall just inside the main entrance. Donations are anonymous and not tax-deductible.
---
UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
KATZ CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS: DR. K'S MOTOWN REVUE (Motown Cover Band)
Sun Aug 25 at 5:00pm @ O'Donohue Park Bandshell, Seagirt Boulevard between Beach 17th and Beach 19th Streets in Far Rockaway
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Thu Sept 12 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Sept 16 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Sept 17 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS PUBLIC CHARGE TOWN HALL HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ AND THE NEW YORK IMMIGRATION COALITION
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Tue Sept 17 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Sept 19 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Oct 29 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
In response to the federal government's latest attack on immigrant families and attempt to restrict legal immigration, join us at this critically important:
Queens Town Hall on Public Charge
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019
5:30pm to 7:30pm
Helen Marshall Cultural Center
Queens Borough Hall
120-55 Queens Boulevard
Kew Gardens, NY 11424
E, F train to Kew Gardens - Union Turnpike
Buses: Q10, Q37, Q46, Q60
The Federal Administration has finalized a new policy in immigration law that could limit legal immigration for working class immigrants. The Public Charge rule will go into effect on October 15, 2019, and though several pending lawsuits may delay implementation, it is important to inform our communities of the potential impact.
Join us at our Queens Town Hall on Public Charge to learn more about "Public Charge," who it may impact and how local organizations are supporting our immigrant communities.
Copyright (C) 2019 Office of the Queens Borough President. All rights reserved.
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY | 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - August 30, 2019
NEW AMERICAN VOTERS ASSOCIATION HOSTS FAMILIES
Borough President Katz, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and former Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley spent last Saturday in Flushing Meadows Corona Park at a family picnic hosted by the New American Voters Association, a nonpartisan organization that aims to boost voter registration and turnout in immigrant communities. Borough President Katz also helped hand out new school supplies to children ahead of the start of the 2019-20 academic year next Thursday.
PROJECT: BACK TO SCHOOL IS A SMASHING SUCCESS
Homeless children across the city will head to their first day of school next week with new backpacks full of supplies, thanks to the generous donations made during Project: Back to School, the annual backpack and supply drive organized by Borough President Katz and the Coalition for the Homeless. Borough President Katz’s education director, Monica Gutierrez (l.) and education coordinator, Ariella Davidov (r.) presented the donations of backpacks, notebooks, pencils, binders and more on Aug. 29 to Coalition for the Homeless Director of Development Sarah Murphy (c.)
CHEERING THE COMPLETED KOSCIUSZKO BRIDGE
Borough President Katz joined Governor Andrew Cuomo and a litany of other elected officials and community leaders on Aug. 28 to celebrate Thursday’s opening of the Kosciuszko Bridge’s second span, marking the completion of the $873 million project to replace the original bridge over Newtown Creek connecting Queens and Brooklyn with a state-of-the-art span. A new public park under the Queens side of the bridge is scheduled to be completed by 2022.
KATZ CONCERT SERIES FINALE IN FAR ROCKAWAY
Borough President Katz’s free annual Katz Concert Series wrapped up on Aug. 25 in Far Rockaway with a performance by Dr. K’s Motown Revue. Over the course of the two-month, seven-concert series held across Queens, more than 1,500 people came out to enjoy a vast array of family-friendly shows from a South Asian dance party in Long Island City to an afternoon of R&B in Cambria Heights.
POET LAUREATE APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
For those interested in being the next Queens Poet Laureate, Borough President Katz has extended the application deadline to Friday, Sept. 20 at 5pm. The winning candidate will be a talented writer who demonstrates she or he has a compelling vision for the role, which includes promoting a love of poetry and literacy throughout the borough. To apply, visit www.queensbp.org/poet.
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UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Thu Sept 12 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Sept 16 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Sept 17 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS TOWN HALL ON "PUBLIC CHARGE" RULE HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ AND THE NEW YORK IMMIGRATION COALITION
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Tue Sept 17 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Sept 19 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Oct 29 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - September 6, 2019
NEW HALLETS COVE PLAYGROUND IN ASTORIA
Borough President Katz, NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver (c.), Councilmember Costa Constantinides (fourth from r.) and other community leaders broke ground on the reconstruction of the Hallets Cove Playground in Astoria on Sept. 5. The $2.22 million project — for which Borough President Katz allocated more than $1.3 million — will include the installation of new play equipment, safety surfacing, water sprays, plantings, larger waterfront seating areas and more.
LABOR LEADS THE WAY IN QUEENS
Queens is a borough built and sustained by organized labor, Borough President said at the Schneps Media’s Leaders in Labor: In Unity, There is Strength awards gala on Sept. 4. New York City will always be a union town, Borough President Katz said, thanks to the dedication of labor leaders who fight every day for the rights of workers.
COMBATING THE CHILLING EFFECTS OF “PUBLIC CHARGE”
Borough President Katz and the New York Immigration Coalition will host a vital Queens Town Hall on the federal government’s new “Public Charge” rule on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Queens Borough Hall from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The administration’s new guidance, slated to go into effect on Oct. 15, would significantly expand the criteria for who can be labeled a “public charge” to include immigrants who participate or are seen as likely to participate in federal public benefit programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid or Section 8 housing assistance.
HONORING AVIGDOR’S HELPING HAND
Borough President Katz, State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. (l.), Assemblymember Daniel Rosenthal (r.) and community leader Simon “Shimi” Pelman (second from r.) helped celebrate Avigdor’s Helping Hand, an organization — founded by Eli Glaser (second from l.) and named in honor of his late son — that provides assistance to families following the death of its primary earner and helps pay for the weddings of individuals without parents.
POET LAUREATE APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
For those interested in being the next Queens Poet Laureate, Borough President Katz has extended the application deadline to Friday, Sept. 20 at 5pm. The winning candidate will be a talented writer who demonstrates she or he has a compelling vision for the role, which includes promoting a love of poetry and literacy throughout the borough. To apply, visit www.queensbp.org/poet.
---
UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Thu Sept 12 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Sept 16 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Sept 17 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS TOWN HALL ON "PUBLIC CHARGE" RULE HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ AND THE NEW YORK IMMIGRATION COALITION
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Tue Sept 17 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
[CANCELLED] QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Sept 19 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET
Tue Oct 29 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
In response to the federal government's latest attack on immigrant families and attempt to restrict legal immigration, join us at this critically important:
Queens Town Hall on Public Charge
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019
5:30pm to 7:30pm
Helen Marshall Cultural Center
Queens Borough Hall
120-55 Queens Boulevard
Kew Gardens, NY 11424
E, F train to Kew Gardens - Union Turnpike
Buses: Q10, Q37, Q46, Q60
The Federal Administration has finalized a new policy in immigration law that could limit legal immigration for working class immigrants. The Public Charge rule will go into effect on October 15, 2019, and though several pending lawsuits may delay implementation, it is important to inform our communities of the potential impact.
Join us at our Queens Town Hall on Public Charge to learn more about "Public Charge," who it may impact and how local organizations are supporting our immigrant communities.
Copyright (C) 2019 Office of the Queens Borough President. All rights reserved.
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY | 11424
If you believe you received this message in error or wish to no longer receive email from us, please https://act.myngp.com/el/GMGLoiuz32NXPRkqDhwM6Q==/RxHYCp4K0d9es9UAgcE5lQ==.
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - September 13, 2019
“HEROES PARK” DEDICATED AT P.S. 58 IN MASPETH
In a tribute to the 2,977 people killed in the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Borough President Katz, Councilmember Robert Holden, Assemblymember Brian Barnwell and former Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley this week dedicated “Heroes Park,” the new schoolyard at P.S. 58 ‘The School of Heroes,’ named for the men and women who ran toward danger and saved lives 18 years ago.
STARTING SCHOOL RIGHT IN ST. ALBANS
Borough President Katz joined New Order of Solutions, APS Realty and Bricks4Kidz in handing out backpacks full of school supplies to area children in St. Albans at the organizations’ annual giveaway on Sept. 7, ensuring that students have the pens, pencils, notebooks and other materials needed to help them succeed in the classroom from the first week of school through the last.
QUEENS WELCOMES NEW HEAD OF YORK COLLEGE
Borough President Katz, U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (rear, fourth from l.), State Senator Leroy Comrie (seated, l.), Assemblymember Vivian Cook (seated, r.), Councilmember Donovan Richards (rear, third from r.) and other community leaders met on Sept. 5 with York College’s new Interim President Berenecea Johnson Eanes (seated, c.), who discussed her vision for the institution of higher education.
UNION LABOR LEADS OUR CITY FORWARD
New York City has always been and always will be a union town, Borough President Katz told hundreds of union workers — including proud members of the Mason Tenders District Council of Greater New York and Long Island — and organized labor leaders at the annual New York City Labor Day Parade in Manhattan on Sept. 7.
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY SERVICE IN THE ROCKAWAYS
Borough President Katz applauded the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula at its 47th annual legislative breakfast for its vast array of nutritional, medical, legal and career services it provides to neighborhood families. Also in attendance were U.S. Reps. Gregory Meeks (third from r.) and Grace Meng (fourth from l.), City Comptroller Scott Stringer (r.), State Senators James Sanders, Jr. (l.) and Joe Addabbo, Jr. (second from l.), Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato (third from l.) and Councilmembers Donovan Richards (fourth from r.) and Barry Grodenchik (second from r.).
ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL IN ROCHDALE VILLAGE
Borough President Katz and Councilmember Adrienne Adams (third from l.) paid a visit to Rochdale Village’s 30th annual fall festival on Sept. 8, as hundreds of area families enjoyed an afternoon of entertainment, food, games, giveaways and shopping.
MARKING SENIOR APPRECIATION MONTH IN SONG
In commemoration of Senior Appreciation Month this September, Borough President Katz will host a Musical Luncheon for Queens seniors on Tuesday, September 24 from 10am to 2pm in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center at Queens Borough Hall. The event, which is open to the public, will feature lunch and musical entertainment provided by genre-spanning dance band The Bartlett Contemporaries and singers from the non-profit organization Sing For Your Seniors.
COMBATING THE CHILLING EFFECTS OF “PUBLIC CHARGE”
Borough President Katz and the New York Immigration Coalition will host a vital Queens Town Hall on the federal government’s new “Public Charge” rule on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Queens Borough Hall from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The administration’s new guidance, slated to go into effect on Oct. 15, would significantly expand the criteria for who can be labeled a “public charge” to include immigrants who participate or are seen as likely to participate in federal public benefit programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid or Section 8 housing assistance.
POET LAUREATE APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
For those interested in being the next Queens Poet Laureate, Borough President Katz has extended the application deadline to Friday, Sept. 20 at 5pm. The winning candidate will be a talented writer who demonstrates she or he has a compelling vision for the role, which includes promoting a love of poetry and literacy throughout the borough. To apply, visit www.queensbp.org/poet.
---
UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD | Topic: Project updates from the School Construction Authority
Mon Sept 16 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET | Topic: Update on new rent regulations and a presentation on the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
Tue Sept 17 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS TOWN HALL ON "PUBLIC CHARGE" RULE HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ AND THE NEW YORK IMMIGRATION COALITION
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Tue Sept 17 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
AIRPORT CONCESSIONS ORIENTATION SYMPOSIUM CO-SPONSORED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ AND THE PORT AUTHORITY OF NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY
(RSVP at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/airport-concessions-orientation-symposium-tickets-70077219851)
Thu Sept 19 from 8:30am to 5:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
[CANCELLED] QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Sept 19 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
SENIOR APPRECIATION MONTH MUSICAL LUNCHEON HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
Tue Sept 24 at 10:00am @ Queens Borough Hall
FREE OPIOID OVERDOSE RESPONSE TRAINING CO-SPONSORED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS AND THE NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE
(RSVP at kaidogls@nychhc.org or 718-334-3844)
Thu Sept 26 at 10:00am @ NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst (Auditorium, Room A1-22), 79-01 Broadway in Elmhurst
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD | Topic: TBA
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET | Topic: TBA
Tue Oct 29 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Weekly Updates from Queens Borough Hall - September 20, 2019
ENSURING QUEENS BUSINESSES ARE AIRPORT STAPLES
Borough President Katz welcomed business owners and prospective concessionaires to an Airport Concessions Orientation Symposium at Queens Borough Hall on Sept. 19, co-hosted by Borough President Katz and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. Dozens of entrepreneurs attended the orientation to learn strategies on operating successful concessions at either LaGuardia or Kennedy airports, both of which are in varying stages of redevelopment.
QUEENS TOWN HALL ON PUBLIC CHARGE
One month ahead of the planned implementation of the federal government’s new anti-immigrant “public charge” policy, Borough President Katz and the New York Immigration Coalition convened a group of community leaders, activists and city officials — including NYC Human Resources Administration Administrator Grace Bonilla (l.) and Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs Deputy Commissioner Sonia Lin (r.) — at Borough Hall on Sept. 17 for a Queens Town Hall on Public Charge. The discussion gave advocates the ability to emphasize the new rule will only apply to a population that is smaller than many assume, debunk misinformation and help counter the chilling effects the rule is already causing in immigrant communities.
WELCOME HOME, QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Borough President Katz and Queens Chamber of Commerce President Tom Grech (l.) along with numerous other Queens elected officials and community leaders helped cut the ribbon on the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s new office within the Bulova Corporate Center in East Elmhurst on Sept. 17.
QJCC HONORS CLAIRE SHULMAN
Borough President Katz and Queens Jewish Community Council Executive Director Cynthia Zalisky (second from l.) and President Michael Nussbaum (r.) presented the Queens Jewish Community Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award to former Borough President Claire Shulman (second from r.) — the first woman to ever hold the office — at the organization’s 50th anniversary gala on Sept. 17.
CELEBRATING TRINIDAD & TOBAGO’S INDEPENDENCE
It was an evening of song, dance, awards, authentic cuisine and more at Borough Hall on Sept. 12, as Borough President Katz hosted her Trinidad & Tobago Independence Day Celebration, marking 57 years since the Caribbean island nation gained its independence from Great Britain.
CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH TURNS 90
Borough President Katz paid a visit to Calvary Baptist Church last Sunday to present a proclamation to the house of worship’s pastor, the Rev. Victor T. Hall, declaring Sept. 15, 2019 as “Calvary Baptist Church Day” in the borough of Queens in celebration of the Jamaica church’s 90th anniversary.
RETURN TO CLASS IS A CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION
Borough President Katz stopped by PS 223’s back to school bash in Jamaica on Sept. 13, hosted by Hot 97’s Ebro in the Morning, featuring giveaways for students. Borough President Katz also met with cure violence and youth empowerment groups in attendance such as Rock Safe Streets, represented by program manager Rosalyn Mason (l.) and LIFE Camp, Inc., led by Erica Ford (r.).
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UPCOMING EVENTS (for an expanded list of Queens events, go to http://queensbp.org/events-in-queens/queens-calendar/)
SENIOR APPRECIATION MONTH MUSICAL LUNCHEON HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
Tue Sept 24 at 10:00am @ Queens Borough Hall
FREE OPIOID OVERDOSE RESPONSE TRAINING CO-SPONSORED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS AND THE NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE
(RSVP at kaidogls@nychhc.org or 718-334-3844)
Thu Sept 26 at 10:00am @ NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst (Auditorium, Room A1-22), 79-01 Broadway in Elmhurst
POLISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Thu Oct 3 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
NEW YORK STATE CITIZEN PREPAREDNESS CORPS TRAINING PROGRAM (PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED AT WWW.PREPARE.NY.GOV)
Sat Oct 5 at 11:00am @ Church of St. Alban the Martyr, 116-42 Farmers Boulevard in St. Albans
QUEENS LAND USE PUBLIC HEARING
Thu Oct 10 at 10:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
DIWALI CELEBRATION HOSTED BY BOROUGH PRESIDENT KATZ
(RSVP www.queensbp.org/rsvp)
Wed Oct 23 at 6:00pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH BOARD | Topic: TBA
Mon Oct 28 at 5:30pm @ Queens Borough Hall
QUEENS BOROUGH CABINET | Topic: TBA
Tue Oct 29 at 9:30am @ Queens Borough Hall
Queens Borough Hall | 120-55 Queens Boulevard | Kew Gardens, NY 11424
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From:
Queens District Attorney Office
info@queensda.org
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
United States
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Queens District Attorney Office
info@queensda.org
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
United States
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
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Resources: Domestic Violence [https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/Domestic%20Violence%20Flyer-Final.pdf] , Suicide [https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/Updated%20Final%20Suicide%20Prevention.pdf] , Commercial Burglaries [https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/Commercial%20Crime%20Prevention%20Tips-Final.pdf]
Queens District Attorney Office
info@queensda.org
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
United States
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
![https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/eblastheader.jpg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/CovidLetter%20final%20updated%20borders.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/NewAddition%20letter%20final%20with%20outside%20border.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/gunTakedown%20EBlast%20final%20link%20below.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-05-07%20AG%20Town%20Hall%202.png][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/mothersDay%20EBLAST%20final2.jpeg](https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/eblastheader.jpg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/CovidLetter%20final%20updated%20borders.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/NewAddition%20letter%20final%20with%20outside%20border.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/gunTakedown%20EBlast%20final%20link%20below.jpeg][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-05-07%20AG%20Town%20Hall%202.png][https://nvlupin.blob.core.windows.net/images/van/NGP/NGP10/1/80297/images/mothersDay%20EBLAST%20final2.jpeg){kind=link}
Two Crews of Drug Dealers and Gun Traffickers Dismantled in Queens Following Long-Term Investigations [http://www.queensda.org/da_Katz_pressRelease/2020/MAY_2020/campbell_steven_and_gillespie_charles_et%20al22222_cmp_04_30_2020.pdf]
Queens District Attorney Office
info@queensda.org
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
United States
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
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Queens District Attorney Office
info@queensda.org
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
United States
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From: Queens Borough President's Office
Your Weekly Update Dear Friends, Welcome to our revamped weekly email newsletter. I hope you have enjoyed the latest updates from my office and will continue to find them helpful. This new format will provide a better layout for the content that is of importance to you. As always, do not hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns. Stay safe, Melinda Katz Recent Press Releases: Defendant sentenced to up to 15 years in stabbing of roommate Defendant charged with hate crime for shooting at victims driving in his neighborhood Whitestone man seen attacking protesters in viral video charged with attempted murder Statement in support of a bill repealing the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution Brave Justice Internship Our inaugural Brave Justice Summer Internship Program welcomed 54 new law students, and 12 new college students to our office this week. This internship will provide students with a front row seat to learn how a bold and transitioning prosecutor’s office operates. We are very excited to have these aspiring lawyers join us for a summer of experiential learning! Read More Virtual Town Hall As New York City prepares for Phase II of re-opening, and more employees return to work, it is important to know your rights. For this reason, my office hosted a virtual webinar alongside New York City Department for Consumer Protection and the Catholic Migration organization. The webinar focused on worker protection information, regardless of immigration status, fraud prevention and public resources. You may still view the webinar in full on my Facebook page. Read More Celebrating Pride Month As we continue into Pride Month, I am honored to celebrate the individuals below for their contribution to the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community: Rod Townsend has been on a quest for a more equal and just New York for decades. As an activist in the support of marriage equality in New York State, Rod protested outside the offices of elected officials in Astoria, organized straight female allies, and shut down Times Square after marriage equality failed to pass the New York Senate. As President of the Stonewall Democratic Club, he guided grassroots election efforts helping challengers to the IDC, led voter registration drives, continued decades of work by the club, bringing to fruition the passage of GENDA, a ban on conversion therapy, the prohibition of “panic defense,” and more. Beyond the political, he has served on Astoria’s Community Board, and volunteered for local groups. Pride 2020 shows us that the fight continues to bring equality of justice to all marginalized populations, and Rod is proud to continue in that fight. Larry Menzie, LCSW/R has been an activist for LGBTQ and criminal justice reform issues in Queens since moving to the Borough in 1997. In 1998, he developed Generation Q with Council Member Danny Dromm to respond to the lack of safe/sober spaces for LGBTQ youth to congregate and explore their own identities. As the Co-Executive Director of Queens Counseling for Change and the President of the NYS Alliance for the Prevention of Sexual Abuse, he works with and within the criminal justice system to effectively address and prevent sexual violence affecting families and communities. In all of these roles, Larry has used the intersectionality of his personal and professional experiences to obtain the most benefit to the individual and their communities by advocating that each person be seen as an individual worthy of respect, that their story be heard, and that barriers to quality services be lifted. COVID-19 Update Phase II Re-Opening New York City is on track to begin Phase II of re-opening on Monday, June 22nd. This includes: All office-based jobs: professional services, administrative support, and information technology. Real estate services: building and property management, and leasing, rental and sales services. Retail and outdoor dining: in-store shopping, outdoor dining, and rental, repair and cleaning services. Barbershops and hair salons (limited services), and motor vehicle leasing, rental and sales. As you and your loved ones return to work, please continue to be vigilant, wear your mask, wash your hands frequently, and maintain social distance. Stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
New Announcement Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau Dear Friends and Neighbors, I hope you are all taking care as we officially enter Phase II of re-opening in New York City. I would like to take this moment to announce an important addition to my office: Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau. This Bureau merges the Office’s former Narcotics Investigations Bureau and Gang Violence bureaus. The Bureau will work diligently to suppress violent crime in Queens County by identifying and prosecuting drivers of violence engaged in organized criminal behavior, including members of violent street gangs, narcotics distribution operations and firearms dealers. For the full press release, click here. And in case you missed it, the creation of this Bureau is preceded by the forming of several other initiatives in recent weeks: The Hate Crimes Bureau is one of the first in the nation committed exclusively to preventing, investigating and prosecuting hate crimes. The Major Economic Crimes Bureau investigates and prosecutes a broad array of large-scale financial crimes that often fuel dangerous criminal enterprises in our communities. The Housing and Worker Protection Bureau focuses on investigating and prosecuting crimes related to homeownership, predatory lending, wage theft and workplace safety. The Cold Case Unit is the first unit in Queens dedicated entirely to solving old homicides. The Conviction Integrity Unit re-investigates cases to ensure that no one has been wrongfully convicted in Queens County. The Human Trafficking Bureau is the first Bureau in a New York City prosecutor’s office that exclusively combats both sex trafficking and labor trafficking in Queens County. As always, you can follow the latest developments from my office on our Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts. Stay safe. Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Recent Press Releases Re-investigation by Queens DA Conviction Integrity Unit determined defendant did not commit 1994 murder Defendant charged with attempted kidnapping of a child from Flushing home Police officer charged with attempted aggravated strangulation for allegedly using illegal chokehold on man during arrest Retired police officer charged with assault in the first degree for firing gun in restaurant, hitting an innocent bystander Conviction Integrity Unit When I created the Queens Conviction Integrity Unit, it was my goal to do our best to undo the wrongs when our justice system makes life-altering errors. A re-investigation of the first case presented before the Unit determined that Mr. Samuel Brownridge, who spent 25+ years in prison for a 1994 murder, is innocent of the crime. His murder conviction was vacated this week as a result. After decades of voicing his innocence, Mr. Brownridge will finally be unencumbered by this miscarriage of justice. Read coverage of this case by The New York Times Community Board 13 I had the pleasure of speaking during the monthly Public Forum hosted by Community Board 13 - one of the largest community boards in terms of geographical area and diversity of neighborhoods. Topics of discussion included new office policies and immediate future goals under my administration. Celebrating Pride Month As Pride Month nears its end, I continue to celebrate some of the many organizations striving to make the world a better place for members of the LGBTQ+ community. This week, I recognize: Queens Pride Queens Pride promotes awareness and education among the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender community of Queens, New York. The founders, New York City Council Member Daniel Dromm and Maritza Martinez, along with countless other community leaders were prompted to organize the Queens Pride parade and festival by the murder of Julio Rivera and discrimination in local schools. These events brought the LGBTQ community of Queens together to achieve respect, and in doing so, identified a need to take advocacy to the streets. The first Queens Pride march was held in 1993, and since, the parade and festival have grown tremendously. It now attracts more than 40,000 spectators and is the second largest Pride celebration in the New York metropolitan area. Queens Pride continues to promote the visibility and accomplishments of the LGBT community and to foster acceptance by the many cultures and religions represented in our borough. AIDS Center of Queens County The AIDS Center of Queens County (ACQC) was founded almost 35 years ago in the borough of Queens. Since then, ACQC has grown to become the largest provider of HIV/AIDS services in the borough of Queens, serving over 10,000 HIV+ clients, and 30,000 community residents in 5 sites throughout the borough. Presently, Rosemary Lopez, Executive Director, oversees 36 programs which include Behavioral Health, Case Management, Education and Prevention, Housing, and Legal, a thriving food pantry that serves more than 500 clients, and additional community residents each week. The most recent addition to client services is the AIDS Healthcare Foundation's Clinic and Pharmacy. ACQC has also been a major sponsor and participant in Queens Pride. They were instrumental in the issuance of their first Pride Permit, Winter Pride, and the LGBT Democratic Club. Community Update Food Distribution With new COVID-19 infection rates continuing to decrease throughout the State, New York is on track to begin Phase III of re-opening on July 6th. However, although we are slowly returning to a new normal, Queens residents still need help weathering this prolonged storm. Recently, my office hosted an internal Food Drive and the staff were able to donate food items for those in need. Our Community Partnerships Division team then distributed these essential food items throughout the borough, with locations including the Jamaica Muslim Center and the South Jamaica Houses. Please continue to stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Immigration Specialist Dear Friends and Neighbors, June being Immigration Heritage Month, I thought it prudent to inform you of an important recent addition to my office: Immigration Specialist, Assistant District Attorney Richard J. LaRosa. Immigration issues bring unique challenges to the criminal justice system. ADA LaRosa has a key role in assisting every Bureau in my office in handling such cases while protecting the rights of immigrants with businesses before the court. He is part of the Appeals and Special Litigation Division and serves as a vital resource to all Assistant District Attorneys in my office on matters dealing with immigration. A St. John's Law grad, ADA LaRosa started out in the private sector, soon specializing in immigration matters, representing clients before the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services and the Executive Office for Immigration Removal. In 2108, he joined the Kings County District Attorney's Office, where he served as Immigration Counsel and Senior ADA prior to joining my team. You may reach his office by dialing 718-286-5931. In addition, I would like to highlight the recent advances related to immigration protections: On June 10th, a federal judge ruled to immediately end the Trump Administration’s policy that previously allowed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to interfere with New York State case proceedings. This means that ICE agents can no longer make arrests in and around State court houses. Attorney General Letitia James and Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez spear-headed this lawsuit and you can read more about this win on the Attorney General's website. On June 28th, the Supreme Court ruled against the Trump Administration's efforts to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which provides legal protections to young immigrants of this country - known as Dreamers. And in case you missed it, I recently hosted a Virtual Town Hall on Immigration Worker Resources during COVID-19 along with Department of Consumer and Worker Protection and Catholic Migration Services. You can still watch the webinar in full by clicking here and access important documents related to worker rights and protections on my website. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office for any legal assistance, no matter your current immigration status. Stay safe. Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Recent Press Releases & Statements Bronx resident charged with murder in the second degree for a hit-and-run box truck crash that killed man and damaged numerous vehicles Statement from Queens DA Melinda Katz on the City's cancellation of plans to build new 116th Police Precinct in Southeast Queens I want to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July weekend. As we celebrate our nation's freedom, my office remains committed to better serving and protecting all Queens residents as we make this the safest, strongest, and fairest borough in our City. Our pursuit of brave justice is just beginning. Please also join me in commemorating our nation's heroes who fought for our independence and freedom. We remain forever grateful. Community Updates Commitment to Peace It’s been a difficult few months for our city. As we continue to recover from the pandemic and try to regain some semblance of normalcy, we are faced with a new crisis: a drastic spike in shootings across our neighborhoods. Several faith leaders in the communities most impacted by this violence have joined me in refusing to accept this escalation as a new normal. We will stand together to reduce this violence by assuring accountability, while paving the way for healing and peace through curtailing gun and gang activity and implementing restorative justice programs. Read the full letter here MSNBC Interview on Criminal Justice I recently joined Ms. Gwen Carr and host Reverend Al Sharpton on MSNBC's PoliticsNation to discuss criminal justice reform and the ongoing national conversation on police accountability. At the end of the day, we need to realize that public safety and police accountability are not contradictory. In fact, they complement each other when you're talking about approaches to criminal justice reform. If a community feels that police actions and police conduct will be held accountable, that will create better partnerships. I was grateful for the opportunity to discuss these points. Watch the full video here NAACP Corona East Elmhurst Branch Meeting I had the pleasure of speaking during the 50th Annual Public and Membership meeting, hosted by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) - Corona East Elmhurst Branch. Topics of discussion included the national conversation about inequality and racial bias in this country, as well as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of youth programs and youth outreach. I was able to discuss the many ways in which my office is actively working towards reforming the criminal justice system to instill trust among members of the community. COVID-19 and Re-opening Thank you to everyone who has continued to stay safe during the re-opening phases amid the COVID-19 pandemic. New infection rates continue to decline across the State and New York City beaches are open for swimming as of July 1. Although more businesses are starting to open, indoor dining will remain closed until further notice to prevent a spike in infection rates. The good news is that more restaurants are offering outdoor dining as we plan to enter Phase III on Monday, July 6. Please make sure to continue wearing your face covering and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Recent Press Releases & Statements Queens man charged with murder after fatally stabbing his partner inside their Jackson Heights apartment Queens man charged with sex trafficking and other crimes for allegedly holding teenage girls against their will at a Jamaica, Queens hotel and forcing them to have sex with strangers for money, pocketing the cash Statement from Queens DA Melinda Katz on the increase in gun violence across the City New Director of Civic Awareness I am glad to welcome Dirk McCall as our new Director of Civic Awareness. With over 26 years of community organizing and communications experience, Dirk will help lead community outreach and engagement efforts on behalf of my office. He comes to us from the Office of the Bronx Borough President, where he served as the Director of External Affairs since 2014. Webinar on the Future of Queens
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, This Sunday, July 19, let’s come together for peace. Join me, Queens Borough President Sharon Lee, elected officials, and members of the Southeast Queens communities as we join voices to call for de-escalation & unity amid rise in gun violence. All organizations are welcome and encouraged to attend with your banner. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Click to RSVP Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Recent Press Releases & Statements Bronx man charged with attempted murder in knife attack that injured two septuagenarian men on the 7 train View the subsequent arraignment update here Queens man sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing 3 year old boy in laundromat and 9 year old girl in a mall Queens DA Melinda Katz issues warning about business email scams Business Email Scheme Foiled Due to the ongoing pandemic, we are experiencing an increased reliance on technology for business transactions. Unfortunately, online predators and scammers have caught on and are using manipulative business email schemes to prey on consumers. Our Housing and Worker Protection Bureau investigates and prosecutes crimes related to homeownership, predatory lending, wage theft and workplace safety. This week, we returned $38,671 to a family in Queens after the Bureau foiled a business email scheme targeting the family and their attorney. I thank the members of the Bureau for their commendable efforts. The Future of Queens On Wednesday, July 15, City & State NY hosted a webinar titled "A Post-COVID Queens: What Have We Learned and What Does the Future Look Like?" I joined Rep. Grace Meng, Rep. Gregory Meeks, Councilman Donovan Richards, and Mr. Rodney S. Capel of Charter Communications to discuss the ongoing pandemic, criminal justice reform, combating gun violence, and more. --------------------------------------------------------Watch the webinar on our Facebook page In Memory of Aamir Griffin On Oct. 26, 2019, 14-year-old Aamir Griffin lost his life to a senseless act of gun violence while playing basketball near his home. NYPD Patrol Borough Queens South, the 113th Police Pct, and NYPD Housing Bureau hosted a heartfelt Bench Dedication Ceremony in Aaamir's honor last week. I was grateful for the opportunity stand in solidarity with his family and community residents. Finding Aamir's killer, and driving gun violence out of our communities, remains a top priority for my office. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Marisha Cheong, whose body was found on the shores of Breezy Point, Queens just over seven years ago. Let's help find those responsible and bring justice to this victim's family. In Case You Missed It This Sunday, July 19th, let's come together for peace. Join me, Queens Borough President Sharon Lee, elected officials, and members of the Southeast Queens communities as we join voices to call for de-escalation and unity amid this rise in gun violence. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates New York passed a grim milestone of 25,000 deaths from COVID-19 this week, a reminder that we must all continue to stay vigilant. New York City is also seeing an uptick in cases of infection among young adults as various re-creation activities resume. No decision has yet been made on Phase 4 of re-opening. Despite the challenges, overall numbers for new infections have remained significantly lower than other states. For that reason, Governor Andrew Cuomo recently extended his Executive Travel Advisory to a total of 22 states. If you have recently traveled to any of these states, you must self-quarantine for 14 days. Please make sure to continue wearing your face covering and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About Constant Contact Sent by asokol@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As our City continues to grapple with gun violence, I want to assure you that my office is committed to stemming the tide. There is no one single solution to the senseless violence plaguing our streets. That is why I am dedicated to bridging the gap between prosecution of crime and community-based intervention as we work to ensure the safety of all Queens residents. My office will continue to infiltrate the drivers of violence and dismantle dangerous gun trafficking rings to eliminate the market for harmful illegal weapons in this county. At the same time, we are actively working with community leaders, faith-based leaders, cure violence groups, and youth programs to prioritize mentorship, education and work-based opportunities for our county's young people. Together, we will bend the arc as we continue to work towards peace. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Recent Press Releases Disbarred lawyer with an office in Fresh Meadows, Queens has been charged with 3 counts of grand larceny for allegedly stealing more than $150,000 from his clients. Gun trafficking ring dismantled with arrests of Virginia man and three Queens residents following long-term investigation Gun Trafficking Ring Dismantled I hosted a joint press conference with New York City Police Department to announce the arrests of four alleged gun traffickers who used the notorious Iron Pipeline and smuggled guns purchased in Virginia to be sold illegally on the streets of Queens County. Police removed nearly two dozen deadly weapons from our neighborhoods, along with high capacity magazines and ammunition following a 10-month-long investigation. I want to thank the NYPD’s Firearm Suppression Section for their relentless pursuit. I also recognize and commend the great work of my team for their tireless efforts. Watch the press conference in full on our Facebook page Queens Stands United for Peace We will not stem the increase in recent shootings by prosecution alone. That is why I remain dedicated to bridging the gap between criminal prosecution and community-based intervention as we work to ensure the safety of all Queens residents. On Sunday, I stood alongside Queens Borough President Sharon Lee as we were joined by Southeast Queens community leaders, union leaders, pastors, cure violence groups, youth leaders, sports academies, police officers, elected officials, and residents who care about the future of their neighborhoods. We remembered those we have lost and rallied in support of community-based intervention methods and alternatives to prevent further crime. See highlights from the rally on our Instagram page Occupying Streets Against Gun Violence I had the opportunity to participate in the 2020 launch of Occupy Overnight in Brooklyn, hosted by Rev. Kirsten John Foy, Arc of Justice, and NAN Youth Huddle, to help bring awareness and discuss resolutions to the increase in shootings across the city. Every resident deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood and we will continue to hold those engaging in criminal activity accountable for their actions. Occupy Overnight has held court in high-risk neighborhoods for seven days in a row, and I was proud to join them again last night in Queensbridge. We stand united in the fight against violence. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Tivell Smalling, who was shot in South Ozone Park four years ago. Let's help find those responsible and bring justice to this victim's loved ones. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates We have cautiously entered Phase 4 of re-opening in New York City this past week, and new infection rates continue to remain low. However, a total of 31 outer states have now been added to Governor Andrew Cuomo's Executive Travel Advisory. If you have recently traveled to any of these states, you must self-quarantine for 14 days upon your return to New York. In addition, although outdoor recreation activities are opening at limited capacity, and several public pools will open starting tomorrow, indoor dining and cultural activities remain closed until further notice. Please continue to wear your face covering, washing hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Reflecting and Re-opening: Our Commitment to Brave Justice Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we move closer to the full reopening of our court system, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together this year. Despite the unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, I have worked to bring a steady hand and new vision to the mission of keeping our communities safe. Navigating through the tumultuous effects of the pandemic, my office swiftly embraced technology, transitioned to working remotely, in order to help keep the criminal justice system running as smoothly as possible. Arraignments and preliminary hearings continue even though grand jury proceedings were brought to a halt in order to safeguard public health. In fact, we have conducted more than 5,000 video conferences for arraignments, essential Criminal and Supreme Court matters, and virtual hearings. These past few months have also been a time to re-define the Office of the District Attorney. In May, our city was transformed yet again as protests spread in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd. I support the peaceful protests and join in solidarity for a more just and fair system. My office did not prosecute those arrested for curfew or social distancing violations. But I am eager to share with you what we have done to date to strengthen our neighborhoods and protect our families: Restructuring to Restore Trust Within the first two months of 2020, a new District Attorney’s office began to take shape, with the development of new divisions, bureaus and units that reflect a clear vision for the future. We’ve implemented new policies that make for a fairer, more just system here in Queens. This means abandoning the use of the 180.80 waiver and top count plea policies that require defendants to waive some of their rights. We have created a Conviction Integrity Unit – a first for Queens – and an enhanced Community Partnerships Division to broaden our reach across the borough and focus on providing meaningful alternatives and safe haven for our county’s young people. Throughout the pandemic, we have continued restructuring, hiring specialists in the fields of immigration and forensic sciences. We have formed a Major Economic Crimes Bureau, a Frauds Bureau, a Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau and a Cold Case Unit. In addition, we began our first summer internship program and have maintained our robust continuing legal education and training curriculum. Providing Protection from the Pandemic In Our Communities During this pandemic, it has not just been the virus itself wreaking havoc on the fabric of our communities. Here are some of the steps we took to protect families, workers, and the exploited: Created a Domestic Violence Helpline to connect those in need with safety planning measures and other available resources. Enhanced the Human Trafficking Bureau to focus resources on the marginalized and to pursue human traffickers. Added a Housing and Worker Protection Bureau to stop the theft of property, wages and equity from hard-working residents and punish those who put workers in danger. Continued to investigate and prosecute child abusers and those who prey upon our elderly. Investigated on-line coronavirus scams and arrested those who exploited the pandemic to line their own pockets. Held unscrupulous merchants accountable for price gouging on much needed protective equipment like masks. In Our Jails Throughout the pandemic, those living and working within the city jails were at a heightened risk of infection. Balancing public safety with public health, my office coordinated daily with the Mayor’s Office, the courts, public defenders, and defense attorneys to expedite the release of the most vulnerable inmates while keeping our communities safe. When appropriate, we coordinated treatment and training alternatives and pursued dispositions and modified sentences. Confronting Gun Violence In recent weeks, the entire city has seen a troubling increase in gun violence. We are working tirelessly with our community and law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who put our lives at risk. Earlier this month, working closely with NYPD, we dismantled a gun trafficking ring that brought guns legally purchased in Virginia up to New York City. In August, working with two good friends from the faith-based community, Rev. Evan Gray of the Macedonia Baptist Church and Rev. Phil Craig of the Greater Springfield Community Church, we are going to get more guns off our streets with “Cash For Guns” events. At the same time, we will continue to work within communities to create opportunities and better choices for at-risk individuals. I am keenly aware of the bold course you have asked me to set as District Attorney. As we reopen and continue to navigate uncharted (and sometimes troubled) waters, it is important to keep our eyes on the prize: creating the safest and fairest county in the city. Together. Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I strongly believe that the only time you see your District Attorney should not be because you did something wrong. That is why I am glad to have participated in a number of public forums these past two weeks, as we slowly and safely continue on the path towards re-opening. My office and I continue to engage members of the community in order to build bridges, build partnerships, and provide better choices for the next generation to come. Together, we will stem this tide and ensure the safety of all Queens residents. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Man charged with attempted rape and assault in attack on woman inside Forest Park. Queens resident charged with murder for allegedly shooting a man in the middle of a street in Corona Queens man charged with attempted murder and other crimes for allegedly shooting former student athlete at point blank range on Springfield Boulevard Brooklyn man pleads guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide, assault, and other crimes for 2018 crash that killed a man and two dogs Cambria Heights man sentenced to 10 years in prison for attempted murder of transgender girlfriend who refused to continue to engage in prostitution Walk of Faith and Freedom Court Square Justice, a relatively new inter-faith organization, hosted an uplifting 10K walk for people of diverse faiths who stand in unity against racism, bigotry, and hatred. The walk started at the Flushing Quaker Meeting House, and continued in high spirit through Queens toward Windmuller Park in Woodside. I was glad to join them, along with Council member Donovan Richards, and see so many young people get involved in their community. Ceasefire: What Will It Take? The violence increase across the City touches everyone who cares about the future of their neighborhood. I joined community leaders, activists, elected officials and NYPD Community Affairs for a Town Hall hosted by Lisa Evers and Fatiyn Mohammad on HOT97 and WBLS 1075FM to discuss the issues and more importantly, the solutions. We refuse to accept this escalation of violence as part of our new normal and remain committed to making our neighborhoods safe. Watch the Town Hall in full on WBLS's Facebook page Summer Jam Block Party for Peace My Community Partnerships Division and I had the pleasure of attending the Summer Jam Block Party for Peace, hosted by Council Member Daneek Miller as part of week-long celebrations along Jamaica Avenue in Queens. We had the opportunity to give out hand sanitizer and trinkets for kids while engaging members of the Southeast Queens communities on issues of importance to them and their loved ones. It was great to see so many community leaders, violence interrupters, youth members and elected officials come together to celebrate diversity and strength. Gun Buy Back I've said it before and I will say it again - we cannot prosecute our way out of gun violence. Together with Rev. Phil Craig of the Greater Springfield Community Church and the New York Police Department, my office is hosting a gun buy back program next Saturday, August 15 from 10-4pm. Turn in an operable hand gun and get $200. No questions asked. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Bridget Manderson, who was struck in the head by a cinder block in Whitestone 41 years ago. Together, we can help bring much awaited justice to this victim's loved ones. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates I share the heavy anticipation of all parents waiting to find out what school learning will look like next month. Although the Mayor has proposed a blended model of in-person and remote learning, questions still remain and a more comprehensive re-opening plan is expected in the next coming weeks. New York City has also set up checkpoints to screen for passengers coming in from states with high infection rates. The new checkpoints, situated at major entry points throughout the City, will stop cars at random. If the traveler is found to have traveled to any of these 35 states, they will be be required to fill out a registration form to complete a two-week quarantine. The road to recovery is still long, but we are Queens Strong and we will get through this crisis together. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we continue to experience a rise in shootings throughout the City, I implore members of the community, faith leaders, law enforcement officials, and violence interrupters to work together towards peace and public safety. To that end, I am hosting two gun buy events with the NYPD and two local churches in Southeast Queens. Each gun taken off our streets is a tragedy averted and we are all partners in this mission. Tomorrow, and next week, if you hand in an operable handgun, you will receive $200. No. Questions. Asked. (Additional details are below). I want to also take this opportunity to thank the 113 and 100 precincts for their participation and Reverends Phil Craig and Evan Gray for opening their churches to host the events. Rest assured that my office will continue to use every resource at our disposal for the safety of all Queens residents. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Queens man sentenced to prison for sexually abusing two girls at daughter's childcare business. Surveying the Courts I recently toured the criminal court house to survey health and safety protocols inside the building, alongside the Executive Chief ADA Jennifer Naiburg. Despite having to readjust our day-to-day procedures because of the ongoing pandemic, my office has not missed a beat in investigating and prosecuting the drivers of violence in Queens County. As we move closer toward the full re-opening of the courts, we remain committed to the pursuit of brave justice and a fairer, more equitable system for all Queens residents. Two Gun Buy Back Events In partnership with the NYPD, I will be hosting two gun buy back events to help stem the tide of violence plaguing our streets. Tomorrow, and next Saturday, turn in an operable handgun and get $200. No questions asked. Read the full press release about these events by clicking here. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Michilene Digirolomo, who was shot and killed in Jamaica, Queens nine years ago. If you have any information, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Re-opening Updates The Mayor has released additional updates regarding the re-opening of schools in New York City, indicating that families will begin receiving in-class schedules on Monday. For more information on the proposed re-opening plan, please click here. In what is hopefully news of relief for parents and renters, Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks issued a memo this week extending the moratorium on residential evictions until October 1. Although we are slowly returning to a new normal, the COVID-19 pandemic is unfortunately still present. Please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Last week's gun buy back program resulted in 117 guns taken off our streets. I am deeply grateful to the Rev. Phil Craig of the Greater Springfield Community Church as well as the 113th Precinct for co-hosting this successful event. We will continue to combat the violence by sponsoring another event tomorrow at Macedonia Baptist Church in Arverne. If you hand in an operable handgun, you will receive $200. No. Questions. Asked. (additional details are below). I would like to take this opportunity to also thank Macedonia's pastor, the Rev. Evan D. Gray and the 100th Police Precinct for their valuable partnership. Let's be clear: My office will continue to pursue and prosecute the drivers of gun violence. If these individuals want to sell guns to our neighbors, they will learn that Queens is closed for business. If they want to purposefully inflict harm on others, they will be held accountable. However, as I've stated time and again, we cannot prosecute our way out of gun violence. Our young people need us to provide hope, alternatives and resources through mentorship, education, and youth outreach programs. We need to do all that we can to make certain the next generation chooses a path away from gun violence and I will continue to work towards that goal. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Queens man sentenced to 12 years in prison for raping a woman shortly after she exited a city bus in Sunnyside last year. Statement on the passing of a great leader, remarkable person, and dedicated public servant - former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman Over 100 Guns Off Our Streets Our first gun buy back event was co-hosted by the 113th Police Precinct and Rev. Phil Craig of the Greater Springfield Community Church in Jamaica, Queens last week. The event resulted in more than 100 guns brought in and handed over to public safety agents. Thank you to members of the community who have courageously decided to participate. Each of the guns taken off of our streets is a potential tragedy avoided. Rock Safe Streets in Far Rockaway Cure violence groups are more important than ever to keeping our communities safe. Organizations such Sheltering Arms, Rock Safe Streets, and 696 Build Queensbridge are doing amazing work in their neighborhoods, interrupting and de-escalating gun violence before it begins. I was proud to join these organizations for their first Caravan 4 Peace and Love in Far Rockaway to promote peace and let the community know there are better paths forward. Celebrating Korean Independence I was honored to have participated in the first annual Korean Independence Day celebration ceremony, hosted by Queens Borough President Sharon Lee and Korean American Association of Greater New York. The ceremony marked a significant new step in highlighting the incredibly rich culture and history of Korean Americans in this country. Gun Buy Back Event Tomorrow at the Macedonia Baptist Church, bring in an operable handgun and receive cash. No. Questions. Asked! Read the full press release about this event by clicking here. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Efrain Vargas, who was killed inside his own apartment three years ago. If you have any information, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Re-opening Updates New York City has released antibody test results of 1.5 million residents, a far larger data set then previously available. The data showed that the COVID-19 affected lower-income communities at a much more significant rate than other parts of the City. Queens had an overall infection rate of 28%, while in Corona, more than 50 percent of people who had gotten tested were found to have antibodies. For the complete coverage of the report data, please click here. In addition, the head of the teachers' union has threatened to go on strike if NYC public schools are not re-opened safely. As part of the union's outlined requests, the City is being asked to test everyone entering schools for COVID-19, ensure adequate ventilation and sufficient personal protective equipment. It is yet unclear whether the City is willing to meet these requests amid planned re-opening of schools next month. It is certainly not easy, but NYC has led the way in driving down infection rates and decreasing the spread of the virus. Please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Over 160 guns were taken off the streets of Queens County during two gun buy back events I co-hosted along with the NYPD, Rev. Phil Craig of the Greater Springfield Community Church and Rev. Evan Gray of Macedonia Baptist Church. Thank you to members of the community who courageously decided to participate. Every gun that was turned in during the past two weeks represents a potential tragedy avoided. We are partners in this mission. To reverse the recent spike in gun violence, it will take all of us - my office, law enforcement, faith leaders, and community members - working together and I am committed to a united path forward. Best, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Queens karate instructor sentenced to 7 years in prison for raping a 12-year-old student. Reputed gang member charged with murder for firing a gun and hitting an unintended victim who was walking his dog. Guns Off Our Streets After 117 guns were recovered in Jamaica last week, our second gun buy back event in Far Rockaway yielded 44 weapons that will no longer be fired on the streets of Queens County. Each of these weapons will undoubtedly help to ease the spike in gun violence that we have experienced this summer. Thank you to the NYPD and the Rev. Evan Gray of Macedonia Baptist Church for their partnership and dedication to working with the community to ensure the safety of all Queens residents. Addressing Public Safety Concerns Several police precincts in Queens have initiated "Build the Block" community meetings to discuss current public safety challenges and quality of life concerns in our neighborhoods. I was glad for the opportunity to attend some of these meetings in the past week and speak directly with constituents on issues of importance to them and their neighbors. Computer Crime Unit Now more than ever, it is important for parents to be aware of what their children are doing on their smartphones, tablets and computers. My office has seen an increase in the number of complaints regarding improper behavior towards teenagers and preteens on the internet. Please beware of the potential risks, some of which are outlined below. And if you suspect that you or your child may be a victim of a cyber crime, contact our Computer Crime Unit at 718-286-6590. We are here to help. Cold Case Unit As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Leah Tagliaferri, who was killed inside her home 18 years ago. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Re-opening Updates New York City is scheduled to inspect all public schools for proper ventilation systems while pressure mounts from school officials and City lawmakers to postpone the planned re-opening day of September 10th. In response to the growing concerns, public schools now have the option of holding outdoor learning, although it's unclear whether they would have enough time to carry out such plans. I share the frustration and anticipation of all parents who are waiting to find out what school will look like come Fall. In addition, although indoor dining remains shelved, NYC has confirmed that fitness centers will be allowed to re-open on Sept. 2 following state-mandated inspections. However, no indoor group classes or indoor pool activities will be permitted. Despite the overwhelming challenges, NYC continues to lead the way in driving down infection rates and decreasing the spread of the virus. Please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, When I became Queens District Attorney in January, I promised to bring a community-centered approach to law enforcement and criminal justice. After more than 25 years of experience as an elected official, I know that real progress on tough issues is made only when public servants listen to and work with communities – and each other. Doing this effectively requires the will to move beyond confrontational headlines that can trigger blame games and divide our pursuit of meaningful solutions. One of the most volatile summers in recent years draws to a close this Labor Day weekend. As we move towards Fall, I remain committed to working closely within our neighborhoods on resolutions to gun violence. Every day, my Community Partnerships Division reaches out to local groups to support their efforts to keep our young people out of the trap of gangs and guns. We also support police efforts to build bridges. Recently, I have attended several meetings of “Build the Block,” a new initiative by the NYPD Neighborhood Coordination Officers to identify and resolve local issues in collaboration with community members. I have pledged to keep residents of our borough safe. With your help and support, my office will continue to pursue and prosecute drivers of crime and gun violence. Together in unity is the only way forward. In friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Albany man indicted on vehicular manslaughter charges for car crash that killed 8-year-old son. Defendant was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and marijuana. Two Brothers, Two Unsolved Cases As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of two brothers, Shawn and Neshawn Plummer, who were killed three years apart in Far Rockaway. Their mother's grief is unimaginable. But you can help us serve justice. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Cops & Kids Basketball Tournament Our Community Partnerships Division had a great time refereeing the Cops & Kids Basketball tournament with the NYPD's 114th Precinct in Astoria last week. The tournament was hosted by the Queens North Youth Strategies Division of NYPD Community Affairs and I was glad to have my office participate. Stop The Violence Town Hall I had the pleasure of visiting Stop The Violence Town Hall, hosted by the NYPD Community Affairs in Queensbridge Park last night. The Town Hall featured youth entertainment activities, live music, food and giveaways as part of ongoing community outreach. Sunday Service at New Greater Bethel Ministries I was grateful for the opportunity to join Dr. John H. Boyd II for Sunday Service at the New Greater Bethel Ministries earlier this week. Working with faith-based leaders on community outreach is a priority for my office. I spoke with the congregation about public safety concerns and criminal justice resources in the community. Remembering the Great Claire Shulman Queens Borough President Sharon Lee hosted a virtual celebration of the life and legacy of Claire Shulman, a dedicated public servant and first female Queens Borough President, who passed away on August 16th. I was honored to work under Claire, and then follow in her footsteps as Queens Borough President. I owe her a great debt of gratitude for her amazing leadership and profound dedication to public service. She is profoundly missed. Housing & Worker Protection Bureau Our Housing and Worker Protection Bureau investigates and prosecutes a wide range of criminal activity concerning workplace safety and real estate scams. If you or someone you love has been a victim of a crime, call the Bureau at 718-286-6673. You may reach out to our office without fear of immigration consequences. We do not share victim or witness information with immigration authorities. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates The Mayor has announced that he reached a deal with teacher and principal unions to safely re-open New York City public schools. All students will have a remote instructional orientation from Sept. 16-18th and will begin all day remote and in-person learning on Sept. 21st. To learn more, please click here. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a temporary eviction moratorium through the end of the year, applying to all rental units nationwide until Dec. 31. Learn more about what it means for you by clicking here. Despite the overwhelming challenges, NYC still leads the way in driving down infection rates and decreasing the spread of the virus. Please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, On September 11, 2001, 19 years ago today, the lives of all New Yorkers changed in the most profound way, as we struggled to make sense of the horrific terror attacks on our soil. Especially on this day, let us remember the souls we lost and honor their memory. Let us continue, always, to remember that there are those who have passed away since 9/11 and continue to battle illnesses following their amazing bravery and dedication. They are forever in our hearts, our thoughts, and our prayers. It is important to remember the true spirit of unity that transcended the chaos of that day. From the heroic first responders to the millions of courageous citizens, New Yorkers came together in the days, weeks and months that followed, marking a road to recovery. As we continue to confront the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, let us remember the strength and resiliency that broke through on 9/11. We mourn, we honor, and we never forget. In memory of those we have lost, let us strive to do all that we can for each other during these difficult times. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Criminal charges Far Rockaway man charged with murder in Labor Day stabbing death. Defendant allegedly used a knife to kill a Brooklyn man during a heated argument near a nail salon. Community Updates Helping Queens Families in Need I had the pleasure of joining the 115th Police Precinct and the NYPD Community Affairs for a food drive at Hinton Park, to help Queens families during these difficult times. The event was a great success, with hundreds of food distributions, live music, youth entertainment, census outreach and masks giveaway. A special thank you to Judge Carmen Velazquez (pictures on the far left) for always supporting these efforts. Laurelton Farmers Market This past Labor Day weekend, I was able to visit the first-ever Laurelton Farmers Market to show support for local businesses and enjoy quality produce in the neighborhood. The farmers market hosted a Youth Day in support of youth entrepreneurs and I had the pleasure of addressing the young crowd. The market is open every weekend through October and is located at the Laurelton LIRR station. Take a moment to stop by! Public Service Announcement The increased reliance on technology amid COVID-19 has prompted more aggressive online predatory behavior. For this reason, I urge you to take necessary precautions to reduce your risk of falling victim to fraudulent activity. If you or someone you know has experienced a cyber crime or scam, do not hesitate to reach out to our Computer Crime Unit at 718-286-6590 for help. Request for Information As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Justin Rivera, who was shot and killed in Woodhaven, Queens. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Re-opening Updates The Mayor has announced that 93% of public school buildings have met the necessary ventilation requirements for the planned opening on September 21st for in-person learning. Unfortunately, the other seven percent consist of ten public school buildings that will not be able to open because of problems with the ventilation system. The two affected school buildings in Queens are P.S. Q222 Fire Fighter Christopher A. Santora School, P.S. 110, and The Riverview School. The City will continue to work to resolve these issues until the building is deemed safe to re-open or an alternate location is found. In addition, Governor Cuomo has announced the re-opening of indoor dining across New York City, starting on September 30th. Restaurants would be permitted to use 25% of their indoor capacity if they adhere to a number of additional restrictions such as a face covering for patrons when not seated. As we continue making progress on the road to recovery, please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Traffic has gotten significantly heavier since our city and borough started re-opening amid the COVID-19 pandemic. More people are choosing their automobiles over public transportation - subway ridership is still down nearly 70 percent, bus travel is down 50 percent, Long Island Railroad travel down around 73 percent. Driving a car provides many conveniences, but with it comes responsibility. It is important to remember the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Any time an individual drinks alcohol and/or smokes marijuana and gets behind the wheel, there's trouble ahead. Everyone on the road is in danger. Even a small amount of alcohol can severely impair judgment and result in calamity. Recently, my office has handled two cases that underscore the terrible consequences of impaired driving. In one, a man pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide and faces up to 15 years in prison for causing a seven-car pile-up that killed another man and his two dogs. In the second tragedy, a Queens grand jury has indicted a man on vehicular homicide and other serious charges for a car crash that killed the defendant's eight-year-old son. If convicted, he faces up to 8 1/3 to 25 years in prison. I do, however, want to ensure that, while people are held accountable for their actions, they do not return to the criminal justice system for the same mistakes. As part of that effort, I take a two-pronged approach in cases where incarceration is not warranted: 1) provide treatment for the defendant's alcohol and/or drug abuse problem and verifying treatment compliance with the use of a Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor or other alcohol monitoring device for a minimum of 90 days during the initial stages of treatment. During this time, they are not allowed to drink or drive. 2) continuing to use technology to insure that a driver who is intoxicated cannot continue to drive - mandating the installation of an ignition interlock device which requires a sober breath sample to start the automobile. Since 2010, our recidivism rate for defendants placed on rigorous monitoring is less than five percent, with the proportion of defendants who successfully complete the 12-month program at over 90 percent. I will continue to combat the problem of under-influence driving in the borough of Queens by utilizing a balanced approach to prosecution, intervention methods, and treatment programs. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Reputed gang member indicted on attempted murder charges for July shooting outside Umbrella Hotel in Kew Gardens. A second shooting and reports of other alleged crimes at the hotel are under investigation. Two Queens residents indicted and charged with murder in the death of Jackson Heights man shot in the back. Queens man charged with attempted murder for shooting at NYPD officers responding to domestic violence 911 call. Request for Information As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Leah Tagliaferri, who was found strangled inside her own home in Woodside, Queens. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Community Updates Remembering our Heroes on 9/11 September 11, 2001 is a day that is very personal for all of us. Last Friday marked the 19th anniversary of that tragic day and I took the opportunity to participate in a number of local events paying tribute to those we lost, and those we continue to lose to 9/11-related illness. We honor their memory and express our gratitude to the selfless heroes who rushed in so that thousand were able to rush out. They are forever in our hearts and in our prayers. Rumble on the Courts, Peace in the Streets Our young people are our future and it is so important to provide them with resources to make better choices. I was glad for the opportunity to visit the "Rumble on the Court, Peace in the Streets" basketball tournament this week and get to know the young sports aficionados in Southeast Queens. The tournament was hosted by James Johnson of Opportunities for Southeast Queens Millennials, along with NYPD Community Affairs and other noteworthy organizations dedicated to youth outreach. I extend my gratitude to all the organizers for giving our kids the opportunity to shine on the court. Helping Queens Families Many Queens families continue to face challenges caused by COVID-19 pandemic, despite the City moving toward re-opening. I was proud to partner with the New American Voter Association and Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom to provide food and school supplies for local residents in Jamaica, Queens. Thank you to both organizations for their vital community outreach efforts. Public Service Announcement It may seem overwhelming to try and leave a dangerous situation at home, especially during a pandemic, but there are still resources available to you and your loved ones. In addition to our great partners at NYCHOPE, and Safe Horizon, the QDA Domestic Violence Helpline can provide resources and support in your community. Call 718-286-4410 to speak to a live person 24 hours a day. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates The recent whirlwind of information surrounding the re-opening of NYC public schools has been frustrating, to say the least. The Mayor announced yesterday that the start of in-person learning will be delayed, once again, until later this month. That means that only students in 3-K, Pre-K, and District 75 will physically return to their school on Monday, September 21. For more information, please click here. In addition, Governor Cuomo has announced that any further re-opening of our State will depend on the positive testing rate for COVID-19. This means that New York will continue to loosen restrictions as long as the positivity rate does not exceed one (1) percent. As we continue making progress on the road to recovery, please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Shanah Tovah! Last but certainly not least, I would like to extend my best wishes to family, friends, and neighbors of the Jewish faith as we celebrate the start of a New Year. May your New Year celebrations be safe, healthy and sweet! Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I would like to extend my best wishes to you and your loved ones as we celebrate the start of a New Year. Although our festivities may be slightly different this weekend, let us reflect on the challenges we have overcome and toast to new beginnings. May your Rosh Hashanah celebrations be safe, healthy and sweet! In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Today, September 25, marks the annual observance of the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims. This is a special opportunity to honor the memory of every homicide victim, and to pay respects to their families and loved ones. This past summer, we saw an alarming increase in homicides across the City that has left behind a trail of anguish and despair. The lives lost are never just statistics; each victim was someone's child, sibling, spouse, parent, friend. We must hold those who commit murder, or attempt to commit murder, accountable for their actions. At the same time, we work to make sure that the next generation doesn't turn to violence. I never lose sight of the mission to make Queens the safest, strongest, and fairest borough in our City. We remain committed to using every resource at our disposal to prevent further crime and to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods. So today, please take time to remember those we have lost to violence and keep the loved ones of the victims in your thoughts and prayers. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week QDA's Housing and Workers Protection Bureau prosecuted Queens contractor and his business for violating prevailing wage labor laws and stealing more than $1.5 million from workers. Bronx man indicted on murder charges for hit-and-run box truck crash that killed new father in Middle Village this summer. Woman charged with hate crime for throwing bottle and yelling racial slurs at female jogger in Woodside. Four Queens defendants indicted on sex trafficking charges for forcing three teenage girls into prostitution. Request for Information As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Ian Welch, who was killed while sitting inside his vehicle in Jamaica, Queens. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Community Updates Protecting Queens Residents Our Domestic Violence unit joined the Queens Family Justice Center to host an informal training session with the NYPD Domestic Violence sergeants. The goal of the training was to encourage coordination in our mission to protect Queens residents. If you need help, please know that there are resources available to you and your loved ones. Call the QDA Domestic Violence helpline at 718-286-4410 or NYC hotline at 800-621-HOPE, no matter the time. You are not alone. We're here to help. Back 2 School Supplies Giveaway Tomorrow, Saturday, September 26, The King of Kings Foundation is hosting a Back 2 School Supplies Giveaway, which I am proud to sponsor to help Queens families. The Giveaway will take place from 12pm until 4pm inside the parking lot of Praise Tabernacle Church, located at 108-11 Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica, Queens. Come by and grab your starter pack, while supplies last! Public Service Announcement Now more than ever, it is important for parents to be aware of what their children are doing on their smartphones, tablets and computers. Beware of the potential risks and learn how you can help avoid cyberbullying, predatory online behavior and scams by following the steps outlined below. If you suspect that you or your child may be a victim of a cyber crime, contact our Computer Crime Unit at 718-286-6590. We're here to help. COVID-19 Re-opening Updates The New York City Department of Health announced an uptick in new infection rates throughout several City neighborhoods, including Kew Gardens and Far Rockaway in Queens. Although we have been faced with enormous challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please continue to stay vigilant in order to protect yourself and those around you. To find nearest COVID-19 testing sites, please click here. Testing is safe, free, and available to all New Yorkers. As we continue making progress on the road to recovery, please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Last week, I announced that four individuals were indicted and arraigned in Queens Supreme Court on sex trafficking, kidnapping and other charges for allegedly forcing three young female victims to have sex with strangers for cash. The defendants are accused of using threats of violence to keep the teenagers in the sex trade and using brute physical force by striking some of the victims. These cases are grim examples of why I formed the Human Trafficking Bureau when I became your District Attorney. The Bureau’s key objectives are to investigate and prosecute the traffickers and to stop the illegal exploitation of the victims. In addition, we seek to connect any person engaged in sex trades to meaningful, community-based support services that would enable them to safely exit if they choose. Throughout the world, there have been many different models and theories of how to combat sex trafficking, but no single approach has been found to eliminate it. That is why I will continue to explore different approaches, and strive always to lead prosecutions with fairness and in the interest of justice. My office will adhere to our goals of punishing traffickers and affording their victims the opportunity to achieve freedom and independence, something every human being is entitled to. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Queens man arraigned on indictment for shooting of former SUNY buffalo football player in July 2020. Far Rockaway husband charged with murder in stabbing death of his wife inside their apartment. Queens man charged with aggravated vehicular homicide in fatal car crash that killed woman on Rockaway Blvd. Defendant was allegedly intoxicated and driving at 97 mph seconds before crash. Disbarred Queens attorney charged with grand larceny for stealing settlement cash from client. Brooklyn man indicted for violent attacks on two women just weeks apart in victims’ apartment buildings in Rego Park. Queens man indicted on murder charges in stabbing death of mother in April 2020. In The Media The Chief-Leader recently gave me the opportunity to discuss the creation of the Housing and Worker Protection Bureau, which has secured $1.5 million in worker restitution from a contractor who was skimming wages from his employees. I created this Bureau to focus on investigating and prosecuting crimes related to homeownership, predatory lending, wage theft and workplace safety. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a housing scam or believe an employer is not providing a safe workplace or suspect another scheme related to a construction site or unfair wages, call our office at 718 286-6673. You can also read the article in full by clicking here. Hispanic Heritage Celebration Next Thursday, October 8, join me and Queens Borough President Sharon Lee as we host a virtual Hispanic Heritage Month ceremony to honor the great contributions by the Latinx community in Queens and beyond. You can register for this virtual celebration by clicking here. Community Updates Remembering Victims of Homicide On the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims, which took place last week, I had the honor of attending a remembrance ceremony hosted by the NYPD Community Affairs and the 113th Police Pct at Baisley Pond Park. It was humbling to meet and speak to the families of the victims as we honored their memory and paid our respects. We never forget the pain and anguish their deaths have left behind. Back to School Supplies Giveaway Many Queens families are currently facing challenges with the re-opening of schools throughout the City. I was glad for the opportunity to sponsor a Back to School supplies giveaway event in Jamaica last week to help some of those in need. Thank you to the King of Kings Foundation for hosting this successful event and allowing me the opportunity to meet with community members. Helping Our Communities Queens is home to many great organizations helping their community during these difficult times. I was happy to join one of those organizations - the American Pakistani Advocacy Group - as we distributed groceries, urged people to complete the census, and encouraged attendees to register to vote. I extend my gratitude to APAG for their dedication to their neighbors. COVID-19 Update The NY City Department of Health has announced several clusters of COVID-19 infections throughout 10 separate neighborhoods in NYC, including Kew Gardens, Kew Gardens Hills, Fresh Meadows, Rego Park, and Far Rockaway in our borough of Queens. These clusters are driving the citywide infection rate past 3 percent, which is concerning. We need to be ever vigilant about wearing our masks and following social distancing guidelines. As we continue making progress on the road to recovery, please continue to wear your face covering, wash hands frequently, and stay safe. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Visit: www.queensda.org Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Earlier this week, I announced the forfeiture of more than $1.3 million in cash that was recovered during a long-term investigation into a cigarette smuggling ring in Queens County. The defendant accused of running the ring pleaded guilty to grand larceny and was ordered to surrender the cash seized during his arrest. Each pack of cigarettes the defendant sold diverted much-needed revenue from public coffers. Those funds will now go to help fund worthwhile programs that benefit the community, at a time when our City and State are running on empty. So far this year, my office has secured more than $2.2 million from those caught and prosecuted for operating illegal, tax-evading enterprises. In addition, my office has received scores of complaints from Queens residents reporting a wide variety of fraudulent activity – including the increasing of using cyber-technology to perpetrate scams. Obtaining justice for victims of fraud will always be a priority for my office – and we’re getting results: Last month, a contractor who attempted to skim wages meant for his employees pleaded guilty and will be making restitution totaling $1.5 million to the workers. We are also proud to have returned nearly $40,000, recovered from a fake email scheme, to a family looking to purchase their home. In this scam, the fraudster used a fake email address to deceive consumers into releasing funds meant for their real estate attorney. Individuals trying to fill their pockets with illegal schemes at the expense of honest, hardworking Queens residents will find themselves facing serious charges. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney News This Week Queens man indicted on rape and assault charges for attack on woman inside Forest Park Queens resident charged in stray bullet shooting that killed married mother of three in Jackson Heights Reputed member of the Redfern Rowdy Gang indicted on attempted murder charges in gang-related shooting Cigarette smuggler pays more than $1.3 million to New York State after pleading guilty to grand larceny Request for Information As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Sophia Vale, who was killed in Jamaica twenty five (25) years ago. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Community Updates United Against Domestic Violence To commemorate the start of October as National Domestic Violence Awareness month, I joined several elected officials, community members and the 109th Police Precinct for an annual rally against domestic violence - hosted by the Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC). For more than two decades, KAFSC has organized this annual rally to bring the community together and raise awareness about this important issue in our society. Honoring Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake Over the weekend, a section of Merrick Boulevard was renamed Floyd H. Flake Boulevard in honor of the tremendous work of the Reverend, Dr. Floyd H. Flake in Southeast Queens. His vision and leadership paved the way for many of us and improved the lives of countless residents. I considered it a personal honor to have participated in the ceremony dedicated to the life and legacy of a great mentor and a dedicated public leader. National Night Out Against Crime National Night Out, which is usually hosted during the first week of August, took place earlier this week throughout the City. Although much different from years past, these community events allow us the chance to come together and get to know our neighborhood police officers. I was glad for the opportunity to visit the 115th and 109th Police Precincts, which always do great work in their communities. We stand united against crime as we bridge the gap and strengthen relationships with our neighbors. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage My Community Partnerships Division joined the Queens Public Defenders in Far Rockaway for a Hispanic Heritage celebration event. Complete with family entertainment, food distribution and resources from non-profit organizations, the celebration honored the rich culture and heritage of the Latinx community. COVID-19 Update As predicted when COVID was first reported in New York 8 months ago, it seems that we are now in the emergence of a second wave of infections that is concentrated in certain neighborhoods. I encourage everyone to utilize the interactive map provided by the City of New York to better determine which zone they fall into and the restrictions that have been placed. It is, unfortunately, all too clear that we are not out of the woods yet. Please continue to wear your face covering, washing hands frequently, and avoid large gatherings. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
October 16, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, October is National Crime Prevention Month. The ongoing pandemic has significantly increased our reliance on technology. More people are doing business on-line. With many schools closed to in-person learning, teens and preteens are spending more time on their phones exploring the internet. And social media is as popular as ever. Unfortunately, online scammers and predators have taken note and are using manipulative tactics to prey on consumers. My office has seen an increase in the number of online scams regarding personal finances, as well as complaints about improper behavior towards teenagers and preteens on the internet. There are simple steps you can take to safeguard yourself and your loved ones, some of which are outlined below: Be wary of any emails requesting money and do not open attachments from unfamiliar senders. Never agree to payment of services or goods with a gift card not issued by that company. Do not provide your personal identifying information (credit card, bank info, etc) via email. Make sure your social media accounts have privacy settings. For Parents: Establish clear guidelines, including time limits for screen use and consequences for inappropriate behavior. Set some ground rules on what types of sites kids can visit and apps they can download. Consider “blackout” periods that require disconnection. Know the platforms. Online enticement happens across all platforms, so be aware of the sites, games, and apps your children frequent. Ask them to show you how they use them. If you think that you or a loved one may have been a victim of a cybercrime or a scam, don't hesitate to reach out to my office at 718-286-6000. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Reputed founding member of ABK (Always Banging Kings) street gang pleaded guilty to attempted assault in the slashing of a man in February 2017 Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Our borough of Queens is the most diverse county in the world and our Hispanic community makes up 28 percent of those who call Queens home. We are a family enriched by the beautiful culture and traditions of people whose background hails from Spanish-speaking countries all over the world. It was my pleasure to partner with Borough President Sharon Lee last week to host a celebration of Hispanic Heritage during a virtual event that honored notable people of Hispanic and Latin descent and included songs and musical performances. I was especially delighted to honor and acknowledge the work of Assistant District Attorney Gabriel Mendoza (pictured above), who has been a prosecutor in Queens for nearly 10 years. You may view the virtual event on our Facebook page by clicking here. Breast Cancer Education and Awareness As you all know, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer affects everyone, not just the person diagnosed. And knowing the facts, including risks, symptoms and when to schedule your mammogram, can help you and your loved ones stay safe. On Monday, join our Education and Awareness Webinar to provide important information and resources pertaining to this disease. Register today by clicking here. Request for Information As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Maurice Johnson, who was killed in Rochdale eight (8) years ago. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Empowering the Younger Generation It was a pleasure to co-sponsor a Back to School Giveaway event hosted by the Cista Girls community organization in Jamaica over the weekend. Cista Girls does amazing work with our young people, ages 11-18, by involving them in community betterment events and educating them about issues of importance in their neighborhoods. My special gratitude to the local VFW Post 5298 for providing the space for this successful event. COVID-19 Update We are in the second week of new restrictions in certain neighborhoods seeing a spike in new infections. Mayor de Blasio stated that the infection rates appear to be leveling off but it is not yet clear how long the restrictions will be kept in place. In addition, Governor Cuomo has added three states to the Executive Travel Advisory: Ohio, Michigan, and Virginia. The advisory requires individuals who have traveled to New York from areas with significant community spread to quarantine for 14 days. A complete list of the states on the advisory can be found here. Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I am honored and humbled to be recognized by the Queens County Women's Bar Association for the first all-women leadership of the Queens District Attorney's office. Please join us for this virtual celebration tomorrow at 5:30pm. RSVP by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens District Attorney's Office Email: info@queensda.org Call: (718) 286-6000 Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Earlier this week, I was delighted to announce the formation of eight community advisory councils to enhance communications between my office and the various communities that comprise our beautifully diverse county. I am a firm believer that the first time people interact with the District Attorney should not be during a time of crisis or tragedy. That is why I am determined to open the doors of my office to the many communities of Queens as we work together to set a bold course and bring about positive change in our borough. The current councils in formation include the African-American Advisory Council, Clergy Advisory Council, East Asian Advisory Council, Jewish Advisory Council, Labor Advisory Council, Latino Advisory Council, LGBTQ Advisory Council and South Asian Advisory Council. The councils each consist of 45-50 members who will share information and observations - particularly about crimes that are underreported to the police due to language barriers or immigration concerns - to address public safety concerns. We all deserve to feel safe in our neighborhoods, and that starts by enhancing trust in law enforcement and the justice system. I look forward to strengthening existing partnerships and building close relationships with our council members - and by extension, all of you - to make this the fairest, strongest, and safest borough in the city. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens man indicted for attempted murder for shooting at NYPD officers responding to domestic violence 911 call Queens man charged with murder in stray bullet death of NYCHA worker Statement to the court on Robert Majors case Honoring Women Leaders It was an honor to be recognized by the Queens County Women's Bar Association and the Queens Assistant District Attorney's Association for the first all-women leadership of the Queens District Attorney's Office. I thank my Chief Executive Jennifer Naiburg and Chief of Staff Camille ChinKeeFatt for sharing a vision of a more equitable justice system and helping to lead this office each and every day. I also never forget, and pay tribute, to all the women who paved the way. You may watch the virtual celebration in full by clicking here. Raising Awareness for Breast Cancer Breast cancer affects everyone, not just the person diagnosed. And especially during October as the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's important to know the facts, understand the risks and advocate for yourself and loved ones. I extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Darlene Williams of Women In Need and Dr. James Satterfield of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital Queens for presenting wellness tips and medical guidance during an Education and Awareness webinar hosted earlier this week. You may watch the webinar in full by clicking here. Connecting with Our Sikh Neighbors It was a privilege to visit the Gurdwara Sant Sagar temple, one of the main Sikh temples in the tri-state area, and speak to members of the Sikh community on issues of importance to them and their families. I look forward to our continued partnership to address public safety and criminal justice concerns in the area. Seeking Justice for Cold Case Victims As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Leslie Zaret, who was killed in Bayside forty six years ago. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Update In much needed good news, Governor Cuomo announced earlier this week that Queens' "hot zones," which experienced a significant spike in infection rates, have now been downgraded to a yellow category. That means that businesses can re-open and schools can switch back to blended learning in the neighborhoods of Far Rockaway, Kew Gardens, Kew Gardens Hills and Forest Hills. Indoor and outdoor dining is also now allowed. For more information on the new guidance, please click here. Thank you to all the borough residents for staying vigilant and helping fight the infection rates throughout Queens. May you all continue to stay safe. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As the first woman elected to this office, I know that I stand on the shoulders of the women who broke barriers, smashed glass ceilings and led the way in the legal profession - here in Queens, throughout New York, and beyond. On Monday, November 2nd, join us for a virtual celebration paying tribute to the achievements of these trailblazers of the legal system, in partnership with the Queens County Women's Bar Association. You can register for this virtual event by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, JFK Airport is a gateway to our borough, our region and our country. Many members of our community earn their livelihood at this airport. Even more rely on the airport not just for travel, but also to receive essential goods including food, medicine, PPE, critical medical supplies and test kits. That is why it is so important to keep it secure. Yesterday, I announced the indictment of a crew charged with carrying out two complicated cargo heists at John F. Kennedy International Airport and selling off the stolen goods for personal profit. Together, these thefts may constitute the largest criminal take at JFK since the Lufthansa heist in 1978. Three of the six individuals charged are former airport service industry workers. They used their insider knowledge to gain access to the airport and forged documents to haul away more than $6 million worth of designer goods. They were assisted by the other defendants who helped them store vast amounts of stolen merchandise and set up buyers. While these heists were complex, the investigation undertaken by my office and other law enforcement agencies was even more intricate. This investigation spanned 9 months, included more than 46 witnesses and entailed 25 members of law enforcement from the Port Authority Police Department, the FBI, and the NYPD. Their partnership was instrumental in the success of this operation. As a result of the investigation, new enhanced security protocols have been put in place at numerous JFK cargo warehouses, including the photographing of truck drivers attempting to pick up high-value cargo, stricter requirements on release times for cargo, and a double verification system for receiving drivers. The people of Queens County should know that I am committed to ensuring that our airports - both JFK and LaGuardia - are safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Long Island mother and son indicted on murder charges in shooting death of man gunned down in Queens Long Island resident charged with murder in death of girlfriend whose body was dumped on Queens expressway Accused sex trafficker indicted by Queens County grand jury for coercing teenage girl into prostitution Man indicted by Queens County grand jury in shooting death of woman struck by stray bullet through bedroom window Remembering Those Lost to COVID-19 I was grateful for the opportunity to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Victory Garden in Southeast Queens, hosted by State Senator Leroy Comrie. The Garden is dedicated to the memory of the lives we lost to the COVID-19 virus. As we grow accustomed to a new normal, we never forget the lives lost, and the families that continue to deal with the loss of their loved ones because of this pandemic. Asian Empowerment in Queens Members of my Community Partnerships Division had the pleasure of attending the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Queens office for two notable advocacy organizations: The Asian American Community Empowerment (BRACE) and the Coalition of Asian Americans for Civil Rights (CAACR). We look forward to working together on issues of importance to the Asian community throughout Queens County. Conversation on Healthy Relationships In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month, the Fatherhood Initiative of the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development and the NYC Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence held a virtual talk focused on "Healthy Relationships" and how we can all bring more awareness to the issue of domestic violence. You can watch the full webinar by clicking here. I took the opportunity to speak about the various resources my office provides to help combat this problem, and the importance of working with community organizations to help break the silence as incidents remain underreported. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there is help available. Don't hesitate to contact the QDA helpline at 718-286-4410, day or night. Honoring Women Leaders
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, There is still time left to register for our virtual celebration of the women who broke barriers, smashed glass ceilings and led the way in the legal profession - here in Queens, throughout New York, and beyond. I am delighted to be sharing their stories with you. To commemorate the achievements of these trailblazers, we will be unveiling the portraits of women leaders that line the hallway of the Queens DA Executive Office Suite. These portraits are prominently displayed to honor and highlight the progress we have made as we look forward toward the future. You may click here to register for the webinar on Zoom, or watch the livestream on our Facebook page starting at 5:30pm. I hope you join us! In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I thought you would be interested in this article that recently appeared in the New York Times, about our work to keep JFK Airport safe and secure. As a result of our efforts, new, enhanced security protocols have been put in place at numerous JFK cargo warehouses, including the photographing of truck drivers attempting to pick up high-value cargo, stricter requirements on release times for cargo, and a double verification system for receiving drivers. I extend my gratitude to the FBI JFK Task Force consisting of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, NYPD, PAPD, NYSP, HSI and Federal Air Marshalls whose collaborative effort was instrumental in this case. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney ‘Goodfellas,’ the Sequel? 4 Arrested in $6 Million Heist at J.F.K. Airport The men used fake paperwork to steal more than 4,000 Prada, Gucci and Chanel items from a cargo area at the airport, prosecutors say. Millions of dollars in designer goods were stolen from Kennedy International Airport by a team of thieves with forged documents, the Queens district attorney said. Credit... Queens County District Attorney's Office By Troy Closson Oct 30, 2020 The man walked into an office at Kennedy International Airport with paperwork that showed the flight information and serial numbers he needed to pick up an expensive shipment. Everything appeared to be in order, and he drove off with a truckload of Prada. But the bags, clothing and jewelry never made it to their destination. Instead, they were taken to a defunct beauty shop in Queens, prosecutors said.
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As the top prosecutor in Queens County, I am committed to keeping the residents of this borough safe. But criminal justice falters at the hands of prosecution alone. We must also focus on providing young individuals with second chances and restorative measures to make sure that their first interaction with the criminal system remains their last. That is why I was pleased to recently announce a formal agreement with Queens Defenders for the launch of a new initiative based at the Rockaway Community Justice Center. Under the program, eligible defendants accused of low-level crimes within the Rockaway area are referred to a local diversion program to receive specialized intervention within their own community. Individuals ages 18 to 24 accused of non-violent, misdemeanor charges are eligible to participate. Participants are held accountable to the community and are given the opportunity to develop career skills. This court-structured program is run by community leaders, including the heads of area churches and houses of worship, neighborhood organizations and business leaders. The goal is to use restorative justice strategies to address the needs of the accused, the victims and the community. Successfully completing the program provides great opportunity for individuals to turn things around and be given a clean slate. For more information on the Rockaway Community Justice Center, please feel free to visit their website at rockawaycjc.org or by calling 1-833-COMMCRT (266-6278). In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Brooklyn man sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide for crash that killed a man and his two dogs Queens man indicted on murder charges in death of girlfriend Drug dealer from Great Neck pleads guilty to criminally negligent homicide after re-supplying heroin to victims knowing both had just survived overdoses Addressing Public Safety Concerns I recently visited the Al-Furqan Jame Masjid mosque in Ozone Park and spoke to the congregants regarding public safety concerns in the area. Thank you to the Mosque President Bodrul Khan and Imam Mohammed Halim for granting me this opportunity. Working together with faith-based and community leaders on issues of importance remains a top priority for my office. Celebrating Trailblazers Being the first female Queens District Attorney, I know that I stand on the shoulders of so many remarkable women that came before me. I was delighted to host a virtual webinar to celebrate and pay tribute to these trailblazers of the legal system, in collaboration with the Queens County Women's Bar Association. You may watch the webinar by clicking here. Historic Hallway During the virtual webinar honoring the remarkable women who came before me, I shared a special tribute video honoring their accomplishments. When I first took office, I decided to create a “Historic Hallway” inside the District Attorney’s Executive Office Suite. This Hallway is proudly lined by portraits of women leaders whose determination and commitment made it possible for them to achieve a “first.” I was delighted to share their stories and you may watch this video below. New Seatbelt Law In Effect There is a new seat belt law that went into effect on November 1st in New York State. The law requires seat belts to be worn by all vehicle occupants, regardless of age or where they sit. This applies to personal cars, taxis, and for-hire vehicles, including app-based trips. Please make sure to buckle up and stay safe. Thanking Our Heroes As we look toward the future of our nation, we must never forget the sacrifices made by our veterans - and their families - for our country's freedoms.
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, There is still time left to register for our Veterans Day Observance Ceremony. Join us virtually tonight, starting at 6pm, in thanking our nation’s heroes for their valiant service and bravery. You may click here to register for the webinar on Zoom, or watch the livestream on our Facebook page. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Queens BP Sharon Lee and I are hosting the seventh annual Diwali celebration this evening, starting at 6pm. Known as the festival of lights, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness for those of the Hindu faith. We look forward to this celebration of positivity and strength, especially given the challenges of this year. I hope you'll join us! You may register for this virtual event by clicking: queensbp.org/rsvp. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, It was my honor to host a virtual Veterans Day Observance Ceremony earlier this week, along with Queens Borough President Sharon Lee, to pay tribute to the service men and women who keep us safe. We can never repay the debt that we owe to our veterans, but my office is committed to ensuring they feel valued and respected when navigating the criminal justice system. That is why I am proud to continue our recent partnership with the NY Court System and the Veterans Administration on the Queens Misdemeanor Veterans Treatment Court (QMVTC). The goal of QMVTC is to provide services and treatment for veterans and active duty military while adjudicating their misdemeanor cases. QMVTC works hand-in-hand with the Veterans Administration, the defense bar and my office to facilitate access to vital services such as counselling, housing, and drug and alcohol treatment, helping military veterans successfully complete court-mandated programs and fulfill the requirements to dismiss their misdemeanor cases. The Court is presided over by Judge Scott Dunn and Judge Jeffrey Gershuny, both of whom are military veterans and understand the unique challenges faced by our service men and women. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens driver indicted by grand jury in death of female passenger; defendant was allegedly drunk and driving in excess of 97 mph Queens man indicted for attempted murder for shooting delivery driver who blocked traffic with truck in January Justice for Our Workers It was a sincere pleasure to recently return more than $1.5 million to victims of a prevailing wage scam (pictured below). The money distributed is the stolen wages recovered by my office following an investigation and the prosecution of Laser Electric and its owner Jagdeep Deol. The defendants pleaded guilty in September to failing to pay a prevailing wage and made restitution at sentencing. Earlier this year I created the Housing and Worker Protection Bureau to combat this kind of malfeasance. When an employee puts in a day’s work, they deserve to be paid the prevailing wage. I thank the Bureau Chief, my staff, and our partners at the Department of Investigations, for their hard work on obtaining justice in this case. Honoring Our Nation's Heroes Our recent Veterans Day Observance Ceremony, in partnership with Queens BP Sharon Lee, paid tribute to the men and women in our Armed Forces who selflessly serve to protect our freedoms. The valor and bravery of our veterans deserve the highest form of recognition. It is because of their sacrifice that I am able to put my children to sleep in their bed safe and free every night. I am forever grateful. You may click here to watch the virtual Ceremony in full. Diwali Celebration Queens is the most diverse county in the U.S. and our rich cultural fabric allows us to share in the festivities for many communities. Queens BP Sharon Lee and I were delighted to host a virtual Diwali celebration for our friends and neighbors of the Hindu, Sikh, Jains, and Buddhist faiths. May this Festival of Lights bring happiness, prosperity, and strength to you and your loved ones. Unsolved But Not Forgotten As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Helen Brock, who was killed in Bayside thirty-six years ago. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Update Many experts agree that we are on the verge of a second COVID-19 wave, with cases rising in almost every State throughout the country. Governor Cuomo announced a new set of restrictions in an effort to stymie this tide, mandating all restaurants, bars, and gyms to close at 10 p.m. every night, starting today. Restaurants can continue providing takeout and delivery overnight but without alcohol. In a bit of good news, Pfizer and BioNTech announced earlier this week that the vaccine which they've developed against COVID-19 appears to be 90% effective, surpassing initial expectations. Additional testing is necessary before the companies can file for emergency use approval with the FDA. Although we are not yet out of the woods, we are all in this together. Please continue to wear your face covering, keep social distance, and wash hands frequently. May you all continue to stay safe. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
November 20, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Yesterday, I announced the filing of a joint motion with the defense to vacate the murder conviction of Ernest “Jaythan” Kendrick, who has been incarcerated for nearly 26 years. This motion was based on newly discovered witnesses and the results of agreed-upon DNA analysis, which contradict significant aspects of the evidence used during trial testimony to convict Mr. Kendrick in 1995. Mr. Kendrick’s case marks the second investigation for the Conviction Integrity Unit that I created at the start of my term to make the criminal justice system more fair and equitable for the 2.3 million people of Queens County. In June of this year, my office filed a joint motion to vacate the murder conviction of Samuel Brownridge, who was incarcerated for more than 25 years for a crime that he did not commit. I will continue to work with defense attorneys and community leaders to restore trust between the justice system and the communities we serve. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens woman charged with assault as a hate crime and other charges for allegedly attacking a couple outside of their Rego Park home Queens man arraigned on attempted sexual abuse charges for violating three females on street in span of three hours New Assistant District Attorney Earlier this week, I was proud to welcome a diverse and talented group of 35 Assistant District Attorneys to this office, following the completion of a four-week training program. This class marks the first class under my administration and I look forward to working with them in support of the Office's mission to ensure a fairer and more just borough. Each of the appointed ADAs - more than half of whom are women and people of color – is a dedicated legal professional ready to serve and pursue brave justice on behalf of all who live and work in Queens. These new assistants will be assigned to either the Criminal Court/Intake Bureau, Domestic Violence or the Appeals Bureau. Thereafter, they will be eligible for assignments in the Investigations or Trials Division. Frauds Bureau Veteran prosecutor Joseph T. Conley III, who spent 16 years in the Suffolk County DA’s office, has been named the head of this Office's Frauds Bureau, which was created earlier this fall. The Frauds Bureau’s goal is to focus on catching criminals who prey on the vulnerable, line their pockets with tax revenue collected on behalf of the City and State and anyone else who uses complicated financial schemes to victimize the innocent. Prosecutors in the Frauds Bureau are specially trained to aid residents of Queens who are victims of embezzlement, organized theft schemes, confidence schemes, trademark counterfeiting, financial and investment scams, cybercrimes and environmental crimes. If you believe that you've been a victim of a fraud-related crime, don't hesitate to reach out for assistance by calling 718-286-6673. We're here to help. Helping Families in Need I recently joined the NYC Corrections DESI Society and the New American Voters Association for a food distribution to help Queens families in need, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month. The event also honored the memory of Brahm Rishi Prasad on the 10th anniversary of his untimely death. The ongoing global pandemic has placed enormous difficulty in reaching out to domestic violence victims. But we are still here to help, 24 hours day. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, don’t hesitate to call the QDA Domestic Violence helpline at 718-286-4410, day or night. Unsolved But Not Forgotten As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Marisha Cheong, whose body was found on the shores of Breezy Point almost eight years ago. Mary Murphy of PIX11 recently explored the details of this case during Monday Morning Mystery, which you can watch by clicking here. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! COVID-19 Update As new COVID-19 cases continue to rise in New York, Mayor de Blasio announced that all schools will close and resume fully-remote classes as of yesterday. Being a mother of two school-aged boys, I sincerely sympathize with all the parents having to navigate such changes. I wish you continued patience and positivity. We will all get through this together. Due to the uptick, Governor Cuomo announced that a decision on indoor dining and gym closures may be imminent. The good news is that companies working to develop vaccines continue to report positive results. Pfizer and BioNTech announced Wednesday that the efficacy portion of their COVID-19 vaccine trial has been completed, showing the vaccine to prevent 95% of cases of the disease. The companies plan to submit for an emergency use authorization to the FDA in the next several days. Please continue to wear your face covering, keep social distance, and wash hands frequently. May you all stay safe. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I want to take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. 2020 has been especially challenging and difficult, and the family gatherings are smaller this year, but I hope your day is filled with joy and good health. I am personally thankful for my two wonderful boys, who have remained patient while navigating a tumultuous school year, as well as the members of the QDA family, who work every day to make sure that our borough is safe and just for all of us here in Queens. Please take care and enjoy the time spent with your loved ones. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
November 27, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Like so many New Yorkers, I was deeply saddened by the news of former Mayor David Dinkins’ passing earlier this week. I had the pleasure of knowing Mayor Dinkins in many capacities over the years. He was a trail blazer and, on a personal note, was always very kind to me. If you saw any of the tributes paid to him this week, his kindness comes as no surprise. He was a gentleman who valued civility above all else. He became Mayor at a very challenging time in New York City. But he always saw himself as a healer and a conciliator, and he truly loved the people of our city. During these difficult days, when too often it feels as if we are divided about too much, we can all learn from his special brand of leadership. May he rest in peace and power. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Man charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI in early morning crash that killed hospital worker in Kew Gardens Hills Two men charged with kidnapping, burglaries and other crimes following home invasion in Richmond Hill Supporting Veterans In the Workforce I was humbled and honored to be presented with the Patriot Award by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA) Foundation in recognition of the efforts made by this office to provide meaningful civilian employment for our veterans. I am proud of the members of my staff who have served and those who are currently members of the reserves. They are dedicated public servants who work to ensure the safety of all Queens residents after bravely serving our nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to employ such accomplished individuals. Food Distributions The QDA Community Partnerships Division partnered with the King of Kings Foundation to provide Queens families in need with free turkeys and canned goods ahead of Thanksgiving this past weekend. Over 400 turkeys were distributed to local residents at the Praise the Tabernacle Church in Jamaica. A special thank you to Todd and Lance Feurtado of the King of Kings Foundation for making this event possible. The QDA Community Partnerships Division also partnered with the New Covenant Baptist Church and Boy Scout Troop 263 of Queens to distribute free turkeys to residents the day before Thanksgiving. This event was made possible by ADA Kevin Jones, one of our newest members from Class of 2020, together with his fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha - Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter. We thank them for their generosity. Unsolved But Not Forgotten As part of our weekly call for help on behalf of the Cold Case Unit, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Efrain Vargas, who is believed to have been killed inside his own apartment nearly four years ago in Woodhaven. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Beware of Scams Targeting Seniors Our office is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our seniors. Stay informed on potential scams to better safeguard yourself and loved ones. Our Elder Fraud Unit investigates and prosecutes financial crimes and schemes involving identity theft and theft of property or savings from senior citizens. If you believe you've been a victim, contact our dedicated Elder Fraud Unit at 718-286-6578. COVID-19 Update I want to thank everyone for scaling back their holiday plans as the country continues to experience a rapid increase in new COVID-19 infections. It is certainly not easy but I remain optimistic about a pandemic-free future. Earlier this week, drug-maker AstraZenaca announced that its vaccine is 90% effective, becoming the third pharmaceutical company to announce promising results in the fight against this virus. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that the first publicly available vaccine dose will be available before the year's end, with additional supplies increasing over time. For more information on a preliminary distribution plan, please click here. Until then, please continue to wear your face covering, keep social distance, and wash hands frequently. May you all stay safe. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, The Daily News recently published my op-ed on the consequences of driving while under the influence and the steps my office is taking to combat this problem. You may read it below or click here for the online version. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Roads safer from drugs and alcohol: Queens’ DA on protecting the city from impaired drivers By Melinda Katz November 27, 2020 As we enter the holiday season of this extremely challenging year, much attention has been focused — and rightly so — on how to see families and loved ones while keeping safe from the pandemic. But it is also a time to urge caution on the roads, and to remember that lives are lost when one gets into a car impaired or intoxicated by alcohol and drugs. When the pandemic first hit and our streets became eerily quiet, traffic as we knew it virtually disappeared. Unfortunately, the empty streets paved the way for too many motorists to disregard traffic rules and speed limits, and to drive recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Now that there are more cars, motorcycles, cyclists and pedestrians back on the roads and here in Queens, one of the consequences has been a marked increase in fatal vehicular collisions. In fact, year-to-date as of Nov. 24, our office has seen a 27.7% increase in fatal collisions throughout the borough. Recent tragedies underscore the role alcohol and drugs can play. In the last few months alone, we’ve seen an 8-year-old killed by a car crash where the driver’s breathalyzer allegedly showed .118 blood alcohol content and a test for cannabis was positive. Early in November, a 32-year-old female passenger was killed when the car veered off the roadway, slamming through a fence and crashing into trees. The driver’s blood alcohol content was allegedly two times above the legal limit. And just this past weekend, a 52-year-old Queens Hospital technician who drew and tested blood samples and assisted with COVID-19 cases was killed on his way to work when his car was slammed by another vehicle. The crash data recorder from the second car indicated that its driver, who has been charged with manslaughter in the second degree, driving while under the influence and other crimes, was allegedly traveling at 97 mph one second before the collision. Since taking office in January, I have redefined and tightened our guidelines on all vehicular crimes, working within the framework of the laws available. The fact is, we need policies that reflect the real threat and harm these preventable crimes have on our families and communities. Few choices are more selfish than driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A drunk or drugged driver not only puts his own life at risk but also the lives of everyone else on the road. Making that choice, the driver is effectively saying, “I don’t care who I injure, I don’t care who I kill.” This threat to our safety exists whether a collision occurs or not. Just getting behind the wheel is enough. Under my administration, these drivers are being held accountable. I have ensured that dispositions on DWI cases are now more closely aligned with statutory guidelines. While each case is examined on its own merits, many DWI cases are no longer eligible for reduced pleas as they had been in the past. We have lowered the blood alcohol levels acceptable for plea offers and seek stronger sanctions in aggravated circumstances. These new policies strengthen our ability to keep these drivers off the road and prevent further harm, but stricter guidelines alone are not enough. Every DWI plea and sentence includes mandatory participation in the state Impaired Driver Program, an intensive educational program focused on high-risk alcohol and drug use behaviors. This program consists of weekly classroom sessions, presentations, guided discussions, individual and group activities. Individuals are screened to identify risk factors for alcohol or substance abuse and, where appropriate, may undergo a comprehensive clinical assessment and receive further treatment. We also work to identify cases where additional meaningful treatment programs can improve driving behavior and reduce recidivism. Moreover, to help reduce the number of alcohol-related injuries and deaths, technology can monitor alcohol use and help ensure that a driver who is intoxicated stays off our streets. These programs work. In fact, 95% of defendants who complete them do not return to the system on DWI-related offenses. These effective accountability measures make our streets safer and save lives. Drunk and drugged driving takes loved ones from us and leaves others behind to find a way to heal, knowing that the preventable tragedy could have been avoided but can never be undone. As we all try to keep our families and friends protected during this pandemic, let’s remember that all those on the roads — drivers, passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians — deserve to return to their loved ones safely as well. Please have a healthy and a safe holiday season. To view this article online, click here. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
December 4, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This week marked a significant transition here in Queens, with Donovan Richards being sworn in as Borough President. Formerly serving as a member of the New York City Council from Far Rockaway, Donovan has a proven track record of advocacy on behalf of his community and I know he cares deeply about the well-being of all who live and work in our borough. I'd also like to take this opportunity to commend outgoing Borough President Sharon Lee for leading Queens during some of the toughest times on record. During her much-longer-than-anticipated, 11-month tenure, she demonstrated a fierce commitment to serving the people of this County by hosting food distributions, employment fairs, PPE giveaway events, and allocating crucial funding for public services. I speak on behalf of countless residents in expressing my gratitude for her service and wish her continued success going forward. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts LaGuardia airport worker sentenced to jail for using cell phone to record woman in bathroom Queens County grand jury indicts man in shooting death of worker hit by stray bullet at Astoria Houses Long Island man indicted for murder in death of pregnant girlfriend whose body was pulled from auto and dumped on Queens expressway Gun runners indicted by Queens County grand jury for trafficking illegal firearms using the Iron Pipeline Outstanding Prosecutor Honor The Chief of the QDA Domestic Violence Bureau, ADA Kelly Sessoms-Newton, was recently recognized as an outstanding assistant district attorney by the New York City Bar Association. Her commitment to public service, especially when it comes to obtaining justice for survivors, deserves the highest accolades. The entire office congratulates ADA Sessoms-Newton on this much deserved honor. "Real Talk" with Faith-Based Leaders I had the pleasure of appearing on the Real Talk show series, hosted by Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor of Center of Hope International. We discussed the upcoming gun buy back event I am hosting in collaboration with the NYPD and Bishop Taylor, as well as legal resources available under my administration. Scroll down for additional information on the upcoming gun buy back event and watch the show in full by clicking here. Community Advisory Councils Recently, we launched two of our eight Community Advisory Councils - the Latino Advisory Council and the LGBTQ Advisory Council. Each of these two Councils consists of nearly 50 representatives from community-based programs, legal service providers, non-profit and advocacy organizations, as well as public health institutions, all working together with my office to ensure the welfare of Queens communities. I was excited to host each of these panels and look forward to welcoming the other Advisory Councils in the coming weeks. To learn more about this important initiative, you may click here. Cash for Guns In partnership with the NYPD and faith-based organizations, I will be hosting a third gun buy back event to help stem the tide of violence plaguing our streets. Tomorrow, turn in an operable handgun and get $200. No questions asked. Please see the flyer below for details and FAQs. COVID-19 Update Although we are inching closer to an available vaccine against COVID-19, public health officials are warning that the next several months may have the worst impact on the spread of the virus. For that reason, it is as important as ever to take the necessary precautions to keep yourselves and your loved ones safe. The Mayor is urging New Yorkers to stay home as much as possible, and avoid non-essential travel during this resurgence, while we wait for the official vaccine approval by the FDA. Governor Cuomo announced that New York will receive the vaccine on December 15 if all safety and efficacy approvals are granted. The doses will be enough for 170,000 New Yorkers, with priority given to long-term care residents and healthcare workers. In the meantime, may you all continue to stay safe. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
December 11, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Yesterday, I filed a joint motion with the defense to vacate two significant convictions from more than 20 years ago. This decision was based on clear evidence of unconstitutional discrimination in jury selection by a former ADA, who resigned in 1997. Although this evidence does not raise any question about the defendants’ guilt, the law is clear. We cannot in good conscience stand behind convictions where the selection of the jury is tainted to any degree by discrimination based on race, sex, religion, ethnicity or national origin. If left unaddressed, such discrimination would further erode public confidence in our justice system. And it is only by acknowledging this discriminatory practice that we honor the hard work of our dedicated lawyers and staff today who strive to treat all people in our community with dignity and fairness. We are also committed to ensuring that those who commit heinous crimes do not escape the consequences of their actions. For this reason, we will re-prosecute these two cases. You may read the full release and my statement to the court by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Couple charged with grand larceny for stealing more than $500,000 from deaf, blind and bed-ridden woman Bronx man indicted for attempted murder in knife attacks that injured two elderly men on subway train Queens County grand jury indicts homeless man in shooting death of deli worker Defendant pleads guilty to manslaughter in stabbing death of Long Island man Taking Guns Off Our Streets A total of 45 guns were collected last weekend during our third gun buy back event in Astoria and Long Island City. Each of these weapons represents a potential tragedy avoided. I'd like to thank our partners at the NYPD, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor of the Center of Hope International & Urban Upbound, as well as the Astoria Community Church for making this event a success despite the inclement weather. To learn more about this program, you may click here. Working With the Community This week, we welcomed two inaugural Community Advisory Councils: African-American Advisory Council and South-Asian/Indo Caribbean Advisory Council. Each of these panels consists of a diverse group of representatives from a wide range of careers and backgrounds. From community organizations to faith-based institutions, civic associations, and local community networks - the Advisory Councils are comprised of people who care deeply about the betterment of Queens. We’re excited to work together on resolving issues facing their communities. Protecting Our Seniors The Visiting Nurse Service of New York, in conjunction with my office, the NYPD, and the NYC Commission on Human Rights, held a virtual seminar on personal safety and property protection for senior citizens. All participants were urged to follow the below "DOs" to better safeguard themselves and their loved ones: Read through and understand documents prior to signing them Confer with a trusted person before sending money to an unknown entity Contact the QDA Elder Fraud Unit if you or someone you know has been a victim of a scam You may reach the Fraud Unit at 718-286-6578. We're here to help. Asking For Information As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Brahm Rishi Prasad, who was killed outside a nightclub in Long Island City 10 years ago. Help us bring his killer to justice, and provide his family with some semblance of peace. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. COVID-19 Update As per the New York Times, the Food and Drug Administration’s vaccine advisory panel - composed of independent scientific experts, infectious disease doctors and statisticians, as well as industry and consumer representatives - voted in favor of emergency authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine for people 16 and over. The vote clears the way for the FDA to authorize the vaccine within days, with health care workers and nursing home staff and residents to begin receiving it early next week. Mayor de Blasio stated that a shipment of more than 450,000 of those vaccines is already on the way to New York, as the City is preparing to start vaccinating hundreds of thousands of people in the coming weeks. Sending Holiday Wishes Yesterday evening marked the first night of Hanukkah. I'd like to take a moment and wish you Joy, Peace - and most of all Good Health - during this holiday and throughout the New Year. May the light of the season shine brightly through your homes! Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
December 18, 2020 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Earlier this week, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Protect Our Courts Act into law. This legislation builds upon his previous Executive Order by outlawing federal immigration authorities, such as ICE, from making arrests in or around the State's court houses. Without these protections, undocumented immigrants may be intercepted by federal agents while coming to court or leaving the court house - whether as defendants, witnesses or victims. Such practices undoubtedly discourage members of immigrant communities from participating in the judicial system. They also impede justice and endanger public safety by making it harder to prosecute crimes. I applaud Gov. Cuomo and the State Legislature for passing this law and ensuring free and equal access for all who live and work here. We are fully aware that immigration issues bring unique challenges to the criminal justice system. That’s why our Office of Immigrant Affairs serves as a guide through the legal system. If you have been the victim of a crime or a scam or illegal exploitation, you have the right to seek justice, regardless of your immigration status - and we are here to help. The first step is to call us at 718-286-6690, or contact us by email: OIA@queensda.org In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Two drivers charged in separate deadly crashes Long Island son, indicted with his mother for gunning down man, extradited from Florida and arraigned on murder charges Trio from Queens & Brooklyn charged with grand larceny and other crimes for swiping expensive wheels and leaving cars on crates in Queens. Avoiding Holiday-themed Scams This holiday season is very different from years past, but unfortunately, scammers continue to take advantage of the festive spirit to prey on consumers. The Federal Trade Commission recently published an informative "12 Days of Consumer Protection" series to help you safeguard your money and avoid scams. Below are some practical tips to keep in mind as you navigate the holiday season: When online shopping, be cautious about clicking links in an email. Instead, type in the store’s URL yourself, so you know where you’re headed. Pay by credit card when possible. It gives you way more protection if something goes wrong. Buy gift cards from sources you know and trust. Think twice about buying gift cards from online auction sites, to avoid buying fake or stolen cards. If you get an unexpected email or text message, don’t click on any links — or open any attachments, even if it appears to be from a legitimate company. Working With the Community This week, we continued our mission of community-based approaches to criminal justice by welcoming two additional Community Advisory Councils: the Pacific Asian Advisory Council and the Clergy Advisory Council. We look forward to strengthening these existing partnerships to better address the needs of the diverse communities represented by each of these panels. Holiday Village Farmers Market The Laurelton Farmers Market, in collaboration with BlaQue Resource Network, launched a Holiday Village event to promote local businesses in the neighborhood this past weekend. It was a pleasure to attend, speak to small business owners and show support for the local community during this holiday season. Grand Menorah Lighting Chabad of Rego Park hosted a festive grand menorah lighting for the nearby community on the 4th night of Hanukkah. I had the opportunity to extend my wishes for the holiday season and "pass the baton" to Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, as he lit the menorah alongside Rabbi Eli Blokh. Community Clean-up SEQ Clean Up, a community organization dedicated to the beautification of Southeast Queens, celebrated the upcoming holiday season with a local clean-up and Christmas tree lighting event. A number of local organizations, including the NYPD, Jamaica Center BID, SEQ Up Front, and Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter were in attendance to spread holiday cheer. Old Astoria Neighborhood Association Meeting It was a pleasure to appear as a guest speaker during the December meeting for the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association (OANA). I had the opportunity to discuss my first 11 months in office, provide helpline information and answer questions from the virtual attendees. You may watch the meeting on OANA's Facebook page. Information Needed As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Priscilla Pimentel, who was found killed in Richmond Hill 14 years ago. Help us bring her killer to justice, and provide her family with some semblance of peace. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. COVID-19 Update Following the FDA approval of the first Covid-19 vaccine, the director of critical care nursing at Northwell LIJ in Queens became the first person in the country vaccinated for the coronavirus. Since then, Gov. Cuomo laid out a vaccine distribution plan pending FDA authorization of a second Covid-19 vaccine by drug maker Moderna. The plan stipulates that Phase II will begin in late-January and will prioritize essential workers and "priority" general public (those with underlying conditions). In the meantime, it's important to stay safe and beware of potential scams touting vaccine availability. Safeguard yourself and loved ones by recognizing the red flags of potential scams, provided by the Federal Trade Commission: You can't pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. That's a scam. You can't pay to get early access to the vaccine. That's a scam. Nobody legit will call about the vaccine and ask for your Social Security, bank account or credit card number. That's a scam. Ignore any vaccine offers that say different, or ask for personal or financial information. To learn more, visit ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I'd like to wish a very Merry Christmas to everyone celebrating this morning. This year's holiday season certainly feels unlike any other, but I have faith in our strength and resiliency and I hope that your day is filled with love, warmth and happiness. There is no formal weekly update today in observance of the holiday. Please stay tuned until next week, when we will look back at what we've accomplished during my first year as your District Attorney. May you take care and continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Happy Kwanzaa to all who begin their celebrations today! Now more than ever, we need to hold on to the traditions of our heritage and enjoy time spent with loved ones as we prepare to say farewell to this tumultuous year. May the light of Kwanzaa bring moments of joy, peace and happiness to your homes today and throughout the coming year! Join our virtual Kwanzaa celebration, in partnership with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, on Tuesday, December 29th at 6pm. You may RSVP in advance by clicking here. May you take care and continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we come to the end of a year that has been unlike any other in the modern times of Queens County (and, indeed, of our city, our country and the world), I want to take this opportunity to offer my best wishes in the New Year, to reflect on some of this office’s 2020 accomplishments, and to reaffirm the principles and vision that guide us to the future. At the beginning of the year, I referred to the mission of the new Queens District Attorney’s office as ‘brave justice,’ but the challenges we were preparing to face did not yet include a worldwide pandemic that, to date, has claimed the lives of thousands of Queens residents. COVID-19’s consistent interruption of court proceedings led us to change and redefine our office since March 15th, but our work continued throughout. Here in Queens in 2020, we saw more than 20,000 cases arraigned in criminal court and handled more than 900 indicted cases. Our prosecutors interviewed witnesses and victims, in person, over the phone and via Webex and Zoom. We responded to crime scenes, hospitals, precincts and multiple other locations both local and out-of-state to investigate cases. We worked with our witnesses and victims to connect them with services as they needed. Throughout this difficult year, the goals of my administration have remained constant: to keep the people of Queens safe by prosecuting drivers of crime… to protect our most vulnerable… to partner with our communities… and to work towards building an equitable criminal justice system. My team and I have maintained a steady hand during turbulent times, whether taking down gun traffickers trying to smuggle illegal weapons from down South or prosecuting human traffickers who exploit and abuse troubled teens. There is always more to be done, but I am proud to report that in our first year we have truly re-imagined the way the DA’s Office works by fortifying our ties to the communities we serve, restructuring to more clearly focus on violent crime and those who would prey on our most vulnerable, and boldly breaking new ground by devoting an entire unit to investigating potential wrongful convictions. Protecting and Supporting Our Communities Throughout years of public service here in Queens, I’ve learned that trust comes from building close relationship in all parts of the most diverse county in the nation. I am determined to open the doors of the DA’s office to our communities, to invite them in, hear their concerns and make sure they know our office. To this end, I asked nearly 400 Queens residents from all walks of life to join our Community Advisory Councils. Among the Advisory Councils launched this year are the Latino, LGBTQ, African-American, South Asian/Indo Caribbean, Pacific Asian, Jewish and Clergy Councils, and two Labor Advisory groups, one focusing on the Building Trades and one focusing on Service Workers. We will continue to form new advisory councils as the opportunities arise, including a Middle Eastern/North African Advisory Council in 2021. Our enhanced Community Partnerships Division broadened our reach across the borough, participating in nearly 400 community-based events in 2020 and hosting thousands of attendees at cultural and heritage appreciation events, both on-line and in person. Together with NYPD and community leaders, we confronted the gun violence that exploded during the summer -- and continues to claim too many lives – with gun buy-back events that have taken more than 200 weapons off the streets. Each of these guns represents a potential tragedy averted. We also organized a Rally for Peace that brought community members and leaders, clergy, cure-violence groups and law enforcement together in unity to condemn gun violence. Crimes fueled by bigotry and hatred have no place in the most diverse county in the country. No one should have to endure being called a vile slur or being attacked simply because of the color of their skin, their religion or who they love. That’s why I created a Hate Crimes Bureau, one of the first in the nation dedicated exclusively to investigating, prosecuting and deterring hate crimes. To break the cycle of crime and offer a second chance to young people in a community-based setting, we are working with Queens Defenders on a new diversion program at the Rockaway Community Justice Center that can hopefully serve as a model for replication in the future. The program is part of an overall emphasis on Alternative Sentencing Programs, when appropriate. Since the pandemic first hit, too many motorists have disregarded traffic laws and speed limits and are driving recklessly or under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Year-to-date, our office has seen a 27 percent increase in fatal collisions throughout the borough. Few choices are more selfish than driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under my administration, drivers are being held accountable for driving while intoxicated. I have ensured that dispositions on DWI cases are now more closely aligned with statutory guidelines. While each case is examined on its own merits, many DWI cases are no longer eligible for reduced pleas as they had been in the past. We have lowered the blood alcohol levels acceptable for plea offers and seek stronger sanctions in aggravated circumstances. These new policies strengthen our ability to keep these drivers off the road and prevent further harm. Some of The Changes Within We’ve implemented new policies that make for a fairer, more just system here in Queens. This includes abandoning the use of the 180.80 waiver and top count plea policies that require defendants to waive some of their rights. Knowing that no system is without flaws, I established a Conviction Integrity Unit to reinvestigate and resolve credible claims of actual innocence or wrongful convictions. As a result of CIU’s work, two men - each of whom had been incarcerated for more than 25 years - had their convictions vacated this year. The CIU, which is the first of its kind in Queens, is currently reviewing more than 80 cases. I also moved to vacate two separate 1996 convictions, based on clear evidence of unconstitutional discrimination in jury selection. The evidence of discrimination did not raise any questions about the defendants’ guilt, and my office will re-prosecute them, but convictions obtained through such discriminatory practices could not be permitted to stand. Our Human Trafficking Bureau is dedicated exclusively to combating human trafficking in Queens County. When young people are forced into prostitution with threats and physical violence, as we allege in cases being prosecuted this year, it is our obligation as a city to hold the traffickers accountable. The bureau aggressively prosecutes traffickers and buyers of sex, while offering survivors of trafficking access to meaningful support services. It also provides community outreach, education and information to help identify and prevent trafficking in our communities. The Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau focuses on organized criminal activity to protect our neighborhoods from violent gangs, gun runners and drug traffickers. This summer, the VCEB and NYPD took down a gun trafficking ring that allegedly used the notorious “Iron Pipeline” to smuggle guns purchased in Virginia for illegal sale on Queens streets. The Housing and Worker Protection Bureau was created to stop the theft of property, wages and equity from hard-working residents and to punish those who put workers in danger. This past fall, the Bureau stopped an unscrupulous contractor from defrauding the city of more than $1.5 million in stolen wages. The defendant pleaded guilty to skimming money that should have been used to pay fair wages to his contractors. More than a dozen workers got their hard-earned wages back thanks to the Housing and Worker Protection Bureau’s efforts. I also established a Frauds Bureau where prosecutors are specially trained to aid residents of Queens, particularly the elderly, who are victims of embezzlement, organized theft schemes, confidence schemes, trademark counterfeiting, financial and investment scams, cyber- and environmental crimes. I am happy to have this opportunity to update you on some of the movement here at the Queens District Attorney’s office. From my family to yours, we hope the New Year finds you healthy, safe and happy. My wish is that, if nothing else, 2021 brings hope and allows us to be together again one day soon. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 8, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, As an American and a long-time public servant, I continue to feel dismay and exasperation at the violent insurrection that took place at the US Capitol this week. I was heartened by the passionate remarks delivered by leaders on “both sides of the aisle” from the floors of the Senate and the House, calling for unity and acknowledging that the cornerstone of our democracy depends on the peaceful transition of power. I stand in solidarity with my fellow Americans in calling for a new, and better, chapter for this great nation. You can view my public statement regarding these events by clicking here. May you all continue to stay safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens man charged with stealing identities of victims and going on car-buying spree Massachusetts resident charged with making terroristic threat; Allegedly planted a “hoax device” bomb on car in Queens mall Two business owners charged with $2.6 million fraud against New York State Insurance Fund for failing to pay worker's compensation insurance premiums Two men in separate cases indicted by Queens County grand jury for using internet to lure 14-year-olds for sex Mourning an exemplary Assistant DA All of us in the Queens DA's office mourn the sudden passing of Bradley Chain, who for 15 years served with distinction as an Assistant DA. He was a smart, committed prosecutor who was giving of himself to his colleagues and the people of Queens County. He was a kind person and I will miss him. We send our deepest condolences to his family. Community Board 9 I joined the monthly meeting of Community Board 9, which encompasses the neighborhoods of Richmond Hill, Woodhaven, Ozone Park and Kew Gardens, to discuss public safety concerns in the area. Board members have been especially concerned with a string of criminal activity and recent shootings taking place in the vicinity of the Umbrella Hotel, located on Queens Blvd in Kew Gardens. My office is actively working with the NYPD to find individuals responsible for the crimes committed on premises and I am hopeful that the City will move forward with shutting down this business for numerous outstanding violations. Rockaway Beach Civic Association It was a pleasure to appear as a guest speaker during the January meeting for the Rockaway Beach Civic Association. I had the opportunity to discuss community concerns in the area and inform attendees about available resources provided by this office. Assistance for Fraud-Related Crime Our Frauds Bureau provides assistance to Queens residents and businesses who are victims of a wide variety of complex financial crimes. The goal is to focus on catching criminals who prey on the vulnerable, line their pockets with tax revenue collected on behalf of the City and State and anyone else who uses complicated financial schemes to victimize the innocent. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a fraud-related crime, contact the Bureau at 718-286-6673. We're here to help. Information Needed As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Cleopatra Barlow, who was found killed in Rosedale almost 27 years ago. Help us bring her killer to justice, and provide her family with some semblance of peace. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. COVID-19 Update Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that more vaccination sites will start to open across the City in an effort to expand the COVID-19 vaccine program. Over the next few days and weeks, pop-up sites at school buildings and other locations in New York City will join the list of current vaccination sites. The Mayor is also moving forward with a plan to open five "Mass Vax" sites, each capable of handling thousands of people, in the coming weeks. To check if you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, please click here. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 15, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, January marks Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention month. Queens County is unfortunately a prime geographic location for traffickers to target and exploit those most at risk. Some of the most vulnerable include homeless and runaway youth, children in group homes or foster care, undocumented workers , LGBTQ+ community members, those suffering from substance abuse, and those facing gender, racial, social or economic inequality. Labor traffickers exploit workers with threats of injury or deportation, using forced labor, domestic work or servitude for little or no wages. Sex traffickers often use psychological or physical coercion, violence, threats, forced drug use or fear to compel adults and children to engage in acts of prostitution. Sex trafficking red flags: Older intimate partner Chronic runaway Unable to make decision without approval Not in possession of own ID Staying in hotels or in possession of hotel keys Labor trafficking red flags: ID documents held by employer or third party Employer holding onto salary for “safekeeping” Excessively long or unusual work hours Fearful of authorities Evidence of physical abuse or malnourishment The QDA Human Trafficking Bureau, which I formed during the first six months of my administration, aggressively investigates and prosecutes sex and labor trafficking crimes. The Bureau collaborates with city, state agencies and non-governmental organizations to facilitate meaningful support services for trafficking survivors, regardless of their immigration status. If you or anyone you know may be a victim of labor trafficking or commercial exploitation - or to be connected to social, legal or immigration services - contact the Human Trafficking Bureau at 718-286-6548 or email HumanTrafficking@queensda.org. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Umbrella Hotel night supervisor arrested for allowing criminal activity in and around establishment Retired police officer indicted by Queens grand jury on assault charges for firing weapon inside Howard Beach restaurant Legal Perspective on Trafficking Throughout the month of January, the Administration for Children’s Services is hosting the "NYC Child Sex Trafficking Conference: A 14 Day Virtual Event" to raise awareness of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Our Human Trafficking Bureau Chief participated in the "Law Enforcement and Legal Perspectives" panel to discuss our office's commitment to combatting these crimes while providing targeted services to survivors. Click here for additional information regarding the conference. Fraud Prevention Workshop Asian Americans for Equality (AAFE) held a workshop this week to educate the public, especially senior citizens in the Chinese Community, about scams and fraud prevention. I was able to join the workshop to speak about the resources this office provides for victims. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a fraud-related crime targeting senior citizens, contact our Elder Fraud Bureau at 718-286-6578. We're here to help. Haitian Independence Day Celebration Queens is home to the most diverse population of any other county in the world and it's always a pleasure celebrating the many vibrant communities that live in this borough. To that end, I had the opportunity to participate in the 217th anniversary celebration of Haitian Independence, hosted by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. The event recognized the contributions that our Haitian American residents and business owners have made to the beauty and strength of this borough. Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. I am pleased to invite you to our annual event celebrating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The event will take place via Zoom on January 19th at 4:30pm. You may register by clicking here, or view the livestream on our Facebook page. COVID-19 Update As of January 11, 2021, New Yorkers in Phase 1a and segments of Phase 1b are eligible for the vaccines. All vaccinations are being distributed by appointment only for the following groups: Healthcare workers People age 65 and over First responders Teachers Public transit workers Grocery store workers Public safety workers Second dose appointments will be booked AT the site where you receive your first shot. It's important to remember that the vaccine requires two doses for effectiveness. To check if you're eligible for a vaccine at this time, please click here. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, practice social distancing, and avoid large gatherings. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 19, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, There is still time left to register for our upcoming virtual event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The event will take place via Zoom, starting at 4:30pm today. Please register in advance by clicking here. Hope to (virtually) see you there! In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 22, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, I am pleased to announce the creation of a new Bureau to perfect and expand our restorative justice programs and units, which include: The Diversion and Alternative Sentencing Unit, dedicated to ensuring that, when appropriate, individuals who have been arrested are offered alternatives to incarceration - including rehabilitative services. Additionally, within the Unit, the Second Chance Community Justice Program is a diversion program that allows community members/leaders to hear cases referred to them, and offers low-level offenders the opportunity to repair and restore their relationships with their communities. The Crime Victims Advocate Program, providing support to crime victims including counseling services, assistance navigating the court system and help obtaining reimbursement for crime-related expenses and referrals to a wide number of support services. The Rehabilitation Programs and Restorative Services Bureau is led by a stellar prosecutor, Aisha Greene, who most recently worked as Chief of the Alternatives to Incarceration Bureau at the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office. She previously served as Director of Brooklyn Justice Initiatives and Associate Director of Research/Practice Strategies at the Center for Court Innovation. I have no doubt that, under her leadership, the Bureau will safeguard efforts to ensure that justice is administered equitably and with compassion in our borough. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Septuagenarian woman charged with attempted assault for repeated poisoning of husband Queens man charged with murder in stabbing death of his 72-year-old father Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. It was an honor to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. this week: I had the pleasure of attending a commemorative policy forum hosted by the National Action Network (NAN) and speak about MLK's lasting affect on generations that followed. I was also proud to host our very first Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in the Queens District Attorney's office. The event took place alongside faith-based leaders who spoke about MLK's impact on peace, unity, and equal rights. If you missed it, you may watch the virtual celebration on our Facebook page by clicking here. Promoting Peace Week As part of Peace Week in the City of New York, this office reaffirms our commitment to peaceful resolutions and impactful discussions in order to steer our young people away from paths of violence. I commend our violence interrupters such as LifeCamp Inc. and Executive Director Erica Ford for their continued efforts to de-escalate, resolve, and unite our communities. Information Needed This month marked the somber 31 year anniversary since the death of Ian Welch, who was found shot and killed while sitting inside his vehicle in Jamaica, Queens. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding his untimely death. Help us bring his killer to justice by contacting NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Speaking to Our Youth The Queens District Attorney's Legal Explorers program, which is active during the school year, introduces over 80 high school students to prosecutors, judges, defense attorneys, police officers and others to discuss how each party plays a vital role in the criminal justice process. This week's meeting was dedicated to Peace Week and I joined the program to speak about my administration, this office's commitment to equity within the criminal justice system, as well as resources to consider as they start thinking about higher education choices. Discussing Community Concerns Although COVID-19 continues to keep us physically apart, I was glad for the opportunity to speak to members of Community Board 12 earlier this week. CB12 encompasses the neighborhoods of Jamaica, Hollis, St. Albans, South Ozone Park and Springfield Gardens. It was a pleasure catching up with old friends and meeting new faces, including the newly elected Chairperson, Reverend Carlene Thorbs. COVID-19 Update New Yorkers are, unfortunately, experiencing a vaccine shortage as appointments for the shot are being canceled or rescheduled due to shortage of supplies. Mayor de Blasio announced that the City is expecting the next shipment of vaccines by middle of next week, which should help alleviate some of the backlog. To find a COVID-19 vaccine site near you, please click here. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, practice social distancing, and avoid large gatherings. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 26, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This Thursday, January 28th, join our panel of legal experts and service providers for a discussion on identifying and preventing human trafficking in our communities. Some of the warning signs of sex and labor trafficking might surprise you and there are misconceptions that persist. This webinar will provide helpful information about spotting the warning signs, reporting suspicious activity, and helping to connect victims to services. The event starts at 3pm via Zoom and will be live streamed on our Facebook page. RSVP today by clicking here or clicking on the flyer below. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
January 29, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This week, my office held a webinar on Human Trafficking Awareness. While trafficking is a very real issue on a global scale, it is also unfortunately happening right here in our backyards. Several experts from this office, as well as partner service providers, spoke about available resources for victims of sex and labor trafficking in Queens County. Far too often, people who are victims of human trafficking feel they are alone and helpless, but we are here to help. Below are the names and contact information for organizations that provide empowerment, mentorship, educational and prevention services to help victims of exploitation exit their dangerous situations and reclaim their lives. The New York Family Justice Center, Queens can be reached via 718.575.4545 The City's Gender-Based Violence hotline can be reached via 800.621.4673 Sanctuary for Families can be reached via 212.349.6009 The Empower Center for Survivors can be reached via 646.496.3036 or empower@sffny.org Voces Latinas, Inc can be reached via 718.593.4528 or nrbugio-torio@voceslatinas.org Mentari USA can be reached via mentariusa@gmail.com If you missed the live stream of our webinar, you may still watch it in full on our Facebook page. As always, if you or someone you know has been a victim or would like to report suspicious activity, you may contact our Human Trafficking Bureau by calling 718-286-6548 or emailing humantrafficking@queensda.org. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In the News The New York Times recently provided me with the opportunity to discuss my first year in office and the ways in which we are ushering in a new era for the criminal justice system in Queens County. The creation of the first Conviction Integrity Unit in the borough, which I established on the first day of my administration, was at the forefront of this conversation. Every wrongful conviction not only destroys the life of the individual wrongly convicted and their family, but also further undermines everyone’s faith in our criminal justice system. This Unit is a crucial aspect of our efforts to reform and refine prosecution in Queens. You may read the article in full by clicking here. Abolishing Capital Punishment I was proud to join nearly 100 criminal justice leaders across the nation in urging the Biden administration to definitively abolish the death penalty in the United States. The signed statement, which was spearheaded by the Fair and Just Prosecution organization, lays out the many factors that have contributed to the detriment of this country's capital punishment system: "Many have tried for over forty years to make America’s death penalty system just. Yet the reality is that our nation’s use of this sanction cannot be repaired, and it should be ended. The death penalty raises serious concerns in tension with the constitutional ban against cruel and unusual punishment and the guarantees of due process and equal protection under the law. It is unequally and arbitrarily applied, ineffective at improving public safety, and a waste of taxpayer resources; and its use presents the perilous risk of executing an innocent person." You may read the statement in full by clicking here. Information Needed Four years ago today, Efrain Vargas was found killed inside his apartment in Woodhaven, Queens. His mother continues to search for answers. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding his death. Help us bring his killer(s) to justice by contacting NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Remembering Holocaust Victims This past Wednesday marked the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which commemorated the 76th anniversary since the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp from the Nazi regime. In honor of this day, The Harriet and Kenneth Kupferberg Holocaust Center hosted an important discussion on anti-Semitism which sadly persists in our nation and abroad. I attended the event to speak about our dedicated Hate Crimes Bureau, which is one of the first in the nation committed exclusively to preventing, investigating and prosecuting hate crimes. If you need help, contact the Bureau via 718-286-7010. Speaking to Gun Violence Survivors Gun violence wreaks havoc on our communities and leaves a devastating impact on the victims, survivors, and their loved ones. Thankfully, Queens is home to wonderful organizations aimed at helping survivors deal with the trauma and heal. I had the privilege of speaking at the general meeting of one of those organizations earlier this week, Where Do We Go From Here Inc. I thank the CEO, Ms. Carolyn Dixon, for the vital work she does for the community. Reaching Out to the Filipino Community As we continue to deal with the ongoing pandemic, we also celebrate the organizations helping us stay safe and protected during these difficult times. The National Alliance of Filipino Concerns (NAFCON) has partnered with Legal Good, Kinding Sindaw, Monarch Medical Aesthetics, and Foundation for Filipino Artists to announce the “Swab and Save Lives: Free COVID-19 Testing and PPE Distribution” event taking place tomorrow, January 30th at the Monarch Clinic in Woodside. For information or to register, please call 917-633-7710 or email registerforcovid@gmail.com. COVID-19 Update Although COVID-19 infection rates continue to climb around the globe, the CDC announced this week that schools could reopen safely if people continue to wear masks and practice social distancing. In addition, Governor Cuomo is expected to ease some of the restrictions on indoor dining in New York City imminently. The City is also expected to receive additional vaccine doses as the federal government tries to address vaccine shortages around the country. To check your eligibility or to find a vaccination site near you, please visit the NYC Health website. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, practice social distancing, and avoid large gatherings. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 5, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This week, State lawmakers passed legislation repealing the outdated and unfair crime of Loitering for the Purpose of Engaging in Prostitution, Penal Law Section 240.37. Over time, this statute has come to be used in ways that wrongfully profile people and even lead to their arrest based on nothing more than gender expression or appearance. My office has declined to prosecute anyone under the now-repealed statute since I took office in January 2020. Earlier this week, I was proud to take part in a collective effort by the District Attorneys Association of New York State expressing our full support of the law's repeal. I applaud the State Legislature and the Governor for eliminating this discriminatory and counterproductive law from the penal code. This was an important step forward to ensure fairness and curb injustice experienced by members of our society. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens man sentenced to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter in stabbing death Queens Village man indicted for murder in stabbing death of his 72-year-old father Beware of Scammers The New York Times Magazine recently profiled victims of monetary scams and discussed the ways in which scammers prey on the vulnerable for their own greed. This article is an important reminder to speak to your family and loved ones about potential warning signs of fraudulent behavior, which can take place online and over the phone. Remember that you should never send money without confirming information with a trusted person. Don't be rushed to make any decisions and always take the time to verify - no matter how dire the situation may appear. If you've been a victim of elder fraud, call our dedicated Frauds Bureau at 718-286-6673. We're here to help. Information Needed Sunday marks the mournful 33 year anniversary since the death of 14-year-old Christine Ann Diefenbach in Richmond Hill, Queens. No matter how much time passes, our quest for justice continues. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding her death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Community Advisory Councils As part of my continued efforts to promote transparency and communication with members of the community, this week marked the second meeting for our Community Advisory Councils - Latino Council and the LGBTQ Council. The head of our Housing and Worker Protection Bureau led a presentation on the wide range of crimes that this Bureau investigates and prosecutes, including wage theft, workplace safety, contractor fraud, deed fraud, and real estate scams. If you need help, contact the Bureau at 718-286-6673. World Hijab Day
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 12, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Yesterday, I announced an investigation by my Office's Frauds Bureau, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations, which resulted in the seizure of 1.7 million counterfeit 3M N95 respirator masks from a Long Island City warehouse before they could be distributed to the public. The warehouse manager, who was running the operation, has been charged with trademark counterfeiting for possessing and selling the fake medical masks. This defendant allegedly sold false hope and security and was set to sell more of these counterfeit masks to whomever would pay his price. These phony masks are not just a rip-off of the company - they are a threat to the safety of frontline medical staff and unsuspecting public who could have unwittingly obtained them. We are living in a horrible pandemic and masks are life-saving equipment for our medical professionals. Every day these essential workers are putting their lives – and their family’s lives - at risk providing healthcare to those affected by this heartless disease. My office has confiscated the bogus merchandise and none of these unsafe masks will be distributed to the public or healthcare workers going forward. Hundreds of thousands of pieces of other types of PPE – including brand-name hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes, children’s masks, construction masks, and gowns – were also found in the warehouse. My Office investigators have begun working with companies to determine the authenticity of these products. We are also working with our law enforcement partners to further identify anyone who may have purchased these items. I want to take this opportunity to stress to the public to be vigilant of items you are purchasing. This should also serve as a warning to healthcare agencies and any other organization that might be unaware of this problem of counterfeit PPE. To help avoid counterfeit products, review this list of suggestions and 3M product indications directly from the manufacturer. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Massachusetts and California residents indicted by grand jury on felony charges for bomb hoax scare at Queens Place Mall last month. Celebrity personal shopper charged with defrauding comedian Kevin Hart out of more than $1 million in fraudulent credit card purchases. Pandemic Within a Pandemic TIME Magazine recently profiled the many obstacles COVID-19 has created in reaching out to victims of domestic violence. The article is an important reminder that sheltering in place does not always mean safety, and a decrease in reporting of cases is not always a positive sign. When the pandemic first began, I created the QDA Domestic Violence helpline, to provide a round-the-clock resource to those in need. The helpline is open 24/7 and allows you to choose whether you want to connect with an ADA or a service provider. If you or someone you know may be in trouble, don't hesitate to contact the helpline via 718-286-4410. We want you to know that you're not alone. We are here to help. Information Needed This past Wednesday marked the 12 year anniversary since Rosario Prestigiacomo was found stabbed to death inside his own home in Ridgewood, Queens. His family and loved ones are still searching for answers. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding his death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Discussing Future Careers It was a pleasure speaking to the The Eagle Academy Foundation, Inc. and their youth ambassadors on potential careers in public service and the importance of getting involved in their communities. The Eagle Academy Foundation, Inc. is a network of six Eagle Academy Schools grades 6-12, which was created to empower inner-city young men to achieve their full potential. I thank the founding principal and current President & CEO, David C. Banks for his steadfast leadership of this vital program. Distributing Essential PPE We can see the light at the end of the tunnel but masks and PPE are still crucial to help us out of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of a recent investigation conducted by my office, in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations, we were able to donate thousands of masks to three wonderful charity organizations in Queens: Hour Children, Elmcor, and New Greater Bethel Ministries. The masks were provided from our own supplier to ensure safety standards. Lunar New Year Celebration Today is the start of Lunar New Year, an annual festival celebrated by members of the Asian community which marks a time of good luck, good health, and family reunion. Next Thursday, we welcome you to our 2021 Lunar New Year celebration as we commemorate the Year of the Ox with honorees and special performances. Livestream begins at 5pm via Zoom and Facebook Live. RSVP today by clicking here. COVID-19 Update Wednesday morning marked the opening of Citi Field as the city's newest vaccination mega-site. Unfortunately, the City continues to struggle with vaccination supplies and the site is by appointment only. If you are eligible, you may schedule your appointment by visiting the NYC Vaccine Finder website or the NYC Health and Hospitals website. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, practice social distancing, and avoid large gatherings. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 17, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Tomorrow evening, we welcome you to our 2021 Lunar New Year celebration to mark a time of good health, prosperity, and family reunion. Join us as we commemorate the Year of the Ox with honorees and special performances. The virtual event begins at 5pm via Zoom and will be live streamed on our Facebook page. RSVP now by clicking here or clicking on the flyer below. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 19, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This coming Monday, February 22nd, I am hosting a special virtual event in honor of Black History Month, to celebrate the countless achievements of African Americans and to recognize their vital role in the history of this nation. We will have the distinct pleasure of hearing from Cheryl Wills as the Keynote Speaker for the evening. Ms. Wills is a nationally recognized award-winning television personality for Spectrum News’ flagship national news network. The celebrations will be moderated by Ruschell Boone - a three time Emmy nominated and award-winning reporter and anchor at Spectrum News NY1. This event will also honor several members of the Black community with special recognition for their incredible contributions to Queens County. We look forward to hosting everyone as we celebrate the rich culture of African Americans in our City. I hope you will join us! The festivities begin at 6pm via Zoom and you can find the details listed in the flyer at the bottom of this email. Please register in advance by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Car wash employee charged with vehicular homicide and drunk driving in death of woman struck while walking to her just-cleaned auto. Information Needed This past Tuesday marked eight years since Marisha Cheong's body was discovered in Breezy Point - two months after she was reported missing. Her family continues searching for answers. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding her death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Discussing Criminal Justice Reform I had the opportunity to sit down with Errol Louis on Inside City Hall this week to discuss the direction of the criminal justice system in Queens County and beyond, having just wrapped up my first year in office. I was also able to highlight a series of reform measures this Office has established under my administration, which includes the borough's first Conviction Integrity Unit and The Rehabilitation Programs and Restorative Services Bureau. You may watch the interview in full by clicking here. Celebrating Lunar New Year It was a pleasure hosting our 2021 Lunar New Year celebration yesterday evening, complete with guest speakers, honorees, and special performances. While this year's celebration was very different from what we are all accustomed to, I never lose faith that the Year of the Ox will bring good fortune, happiness, and health. If you missed the virtual event, you may watch it in full on our Facebook page by clicking here. Paying Tribute to our Black Military Heroes Our Community Partnerships Division was on-site to honor local Black military leaders during a recent Black History Month celebration by the American Legion Post 483 in Rosedale. The event paid homage to our local Black military heroes who are proud to call Southeast Queens their home. We thank them for their service and never forget their sacrifice. Promoting Family Harmony Garden of Hope - an organization that provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking - recently hosted a workshop for community members and leaders, titled "Family Harmony in Pandemic." The workshop, held in partnership with my office, helped to raise awareness of domestic violence and provided resources for those who need help. This Office's Domestic Violence Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, call 718-286-4410. We're here to help. Celebrating Black History Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 22, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Tonight at 6pm, I am hosting a special virtual event in honor of Black History Month. We will have the distinct pleasure of hearing from Cheryl Wills as the Keynote Speaker for the evening. Ms. Wills is a nationally recognized award-winning television personality for Spectrum News’ flagship national news network. The celebrations will be moderated by Ruschell Boone, a three time Emmy nominated and award-winning reporter and anchor at Spectrum News NY1. This event will also honor several members of the Black community with special recognition for their incredible contributions to Queens County. I hope you will join us! Please register in advance by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
February 26, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Earlier this week, I stood in solidarity with Borough President Donovan Richards, Queens elected officials, community leaders and residents to denounce anti-Asian, anti-Semitic crimes and any crimes against anyone in our borough based on race, religion, who they love or any other protected class. During the first six months of my administration, I created the Hate Crimes Bureau, one of the first in the nation committed exclusively to preventing, investigating and prosecuting hate crimes. This Bureau, under the leadership of Chief Michael Brovner, is available to you and anyone who believes they have been a victim of a hate crime. You can call and speak to someone who understands these crimes and who can assist you in navigating the criminal justice system. If you would like to report a hate crime, or have evidence of a hate crime, call our office at 718-286-7010. We're here to help. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Long Island City man arraigned on assault charges for allegedly attacking two New York City Firefighters responding to an emergency call. Queens home health aide charged with stealing nearly $100,000 from legally blind 89-year-old woman. City Council Testimony The City Council held a committee meeting this week on a proposed bill to create a crash investigation and analysis unit within the Department of Transportation (DOT), which would effectively place DOT in charge of investigating serious auto accidents instead of the NYPD. The five NYC District Attorneys, including myself, sent a letter to the committee opposing this bill because of concerns that the bill would have the unintended consequence of hindering our ability to hold dangerous drivers accountable. I also had the opportunity to testify during the hearing, alongside Staten Island DA McMahon, to further discuss the bill's potential adverse impact on vehicular crime investigations. Information Needed NYPD Crimestoppers have released surveillance video in the case of NeShawn Plummer, who was shot and killed in Far Rockaway six years ago. The tragedy unfolded mere blocks away from where his older brother was gunned down three years earlier. Our Cold Case Unit continues to work with the NYPD in an effort to bring justice in this case and we are urging the public to watch the footage and come forward with any information. You may view the video, published by the New York Post, by clicking here. Visiting Local Houses of Worship It was a pleasure to attend Sunday Service at several houses of worship in the borough this past weekend, including the New Jerusalem Worship Center, Antioch Baptist Church of Corona, Bellerose Assembly of God, and St Mark AME Church. I was able to reflect on this office's accomplishments during the first year of my administration and provide helpful information to those who may require legal assistance or services. It is my hope and prayer that everyone stays in good health and that we are able to meet safely in person again soon. Celebrating Black History Month Our virtual Black History Month celebration was all the more poignant this year, and served as a reminder that we must continue our work to guarantee justice for every Queens County resident. We had the distinct pleasure of hearing from Keynote Speaker, Cheryl Wills of NY1, who spoke about tracking down her remarkable family lineage and the importance of researching, learning, and teaching Black History. The event was made special by Ruschell Boone, an award-winning breaking news reporter, arts and entertainment correspondent, and anchor at NY1, who moderated the virtual festivities. If you missed the celebration, you may watch it in full on our Facebook page by clicking here. Coat Donations Following an in-house coat drive, our Community Partnerships Division donated hundreds of coats to Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, Inc., a Queens non-profit, multi-service organization of professionals providing a variety of comprehensive programs that serve all populations from preschool aged children to senior citizens. We are glad to support them in their mission to foster positive life changes for individuals and families through skills development. Rally To End Violence Against Women The Community Partnerships Division was on-site during a rally organized by the United Madrassi Association Inc. and the Brothers Reach Out Support Group. The rally brought together several local organizations for a candlelight vigil in support of ending violence against women. My office is proud to partner with these organizations to denounce violence experienced by women and to provide support, empowerment, and legal resources in an effort to help combat crimes committed against women in the borough of Queens. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
March 5, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, It is my duty as your District Attorney to emphasize that those who do business in Queens County, including contractors and development companies, are expected to comply with applicable City, State, and Federal regulations. This includes paying their staff the proper wage, ensuring worker compensation coverage, providing proper workplace safety, and following the law in all aspects of their operation. My office has made it a priority to ensure that workers are fairly treated and those who would victimize them are held accountable. Our dedicated Housing and Worker Protection Bureau investigates and prosecutes individual business owners, freelance contractors, as well as corporations for a variety of crimes related to homeownership, predatory lending, wage theft and workplace safety. We also understand that the vast majority of businesses who treat their employees properly are also victims of wage theft and related crimes because they cannot compete with employers who do not have the same costs. Labor and housing-related malfeasance hurts everyone: employers, workers, and the public. That is why I strongly urge every individual and business operating in Queens County to fully comply with City, State, and Federal legal obligations. Doing otherwise may result in my office holding you accountable. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Grand jury indicts Queens resident in hit and run crash that killed good Samaritan who stopped to help man having car trouble Queens man charged with stealing $11,000 in text message scam to deceased man’s sister in Ireland Protecting Transit Workers TWU Local 100, representing transportation workers, held a press conference this week in support of a penal code amendment that would elevate spitting, shoving, kicking and other forms of physical contact against transit workers from a violation to a Class A misdemeanor in New York State. I joined union leaders, members, and employees to demonstrate the full support of the five NYC District Attorneys for this amendment. The proposal will make it easier for police to investigate and bring charges, and more importantly, it will hopefully serve as a deterrent. This office deeply supports our transit workers, who have kept the city moving during a nation-wide pandemic. We thank them for their service and continue to advocate for their safety. Information Needed Monday marks the somber nine year anniversary since the death of Maurice Johnson, found shot to death in Rochdale, Queens. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding his death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. Women's History Month March marks Women's History Month and I am proud to have my team represent the first all-women leadership of the Office of the Queens County District Attorney, with Chief Executive ADA Jennifer Naiburg and Chief of Staff Camille Chin-Kee-Fatt. Our mission is to empower, mentor, and lift the next generation of female leaders in this borough and beyond. We also pay tribute to all those who came before us and paved the way. The portraits of some of these trailblazers in the legal profession line the hallway of the District Attorney's Executive Suite, and I am proud to walk among them. You may watch our special tribute by clicking on the video below. Consumer Protection Week This week is National Consumer Protection Week, and our increased reliance on technology has, unfortunately, made us vulnerable to cyber scams and fraudulent online behavior. I am urging everyone to beware of potential risks and learn how to safeguard yourselves and loved ones. The Federal Trade Commission also regularly issues important tips to help people and businesses avoid falling for common scams. You may visit their consumer information blog by clicking here. Scam Awareness and Fraud Protection This office has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to scammers and fraudsters preying on consumers to line their own pockets. As part of our efforts to combat this type of behavior, I am hosting a special seminar on Scam Awareness and Fraud Protection. On Wednesday, March 10th at 6pm, join our legal experts, tax advocates, and experts to learn how to avoid scams, take advantage of free resources, and report crimes to obtain justice. Translation services in Mandarin, Spanish, and Korean will be available. Register in advance by clicking here. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
March 9, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This office has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to scammers and fraudsters preying on consumers to line their own pockets. As part of our efforts to combat this type of behavior, I am hosting a special seminar on Scam Awareness and Fraud Protection. Tomorrow at 6pm, join our legal experts, tax advocates, and experts to learn how to avoid scams, take advantage of free resources, and report crimes to obtain justice. Translation services in Spanish, Chinese, and Korean will be available. Habrá servicios de traducción en español, chino y coreano. 本讲座提供中文普通话，韩语和西班牙语翻译。 중국어, 스페인어, 한국어 동시 통역 Register in advance by clicking here. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Customer Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
March 12, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, I am excited to announce grant funding for a violence prevention program in Queens County, sponsored by my office. I have stated on numerous occasions that we cannot prosecute our way out of the recent surge of violence that has plagued our borough and our City. We must continue to ensure that we are engaging with the community on meaningful prevention strategies and providing services to our young people so that they can choose a path to education, employment and success. As part of that effort, my office has put out Requests for Proposal (RFP) for qualified applicants to implement the Queens Community Violence Prevention Project. The work solicited in this RFP will advance our goals of improving public safety and promoting a fair and efficient criminal justice system, through the planning and implementation of community-based violence prevention projects. The goals and expected outcomes of funded proposals are to increase community mobilization and messaging around anti-gun violence activities and initiatives, increase community-led responses to denounce violent incidents, develop better connections to support services, increase positive engagements with the NYPD and ultimately reduce violent crime. I urge all those who are interested to visit our - new and improved - website at www.queensda.org for additional information and application download. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens County grand jury indicts car wash employee on vehicular manslaughter and drunk driving charges in death of woman struck while walking to her just-cleaned auto Three professional tax preparers in Queens charged with fraud for filing false returns that cheated city and state Fifth indicted defendant apprehended and charged with conspiracy in million dollar luxury goods heist from JFK Airport in 2020 Queens couple indicted on sex trafficking and other charges for transporting women from Korea and forcing them into prostitution Protection from Scams and Frauds Our recent Scam Awareness and Fraud Protection webinar provided an array of useful information on avoiding scams, reporting fraudulent activity, and benefiting from free resources provided by the Internal Revenue Service, the City Department for the Aging, the Office of the City Taxpayer Advocate, and Queens Legal Services. In case you missed it, click here to watch the webinar in full. If you or someone you know may have been a victim of a scam or fraud, please contact our Consumer Fraud helpline at 718-286-6673. If you believe that you have been a victim of an scam or fraud targeting the elderly, call our dedicated Elder Fraud Unit at 718-286-6578. We're here to help. Information Needed Almost 22 years ago, Antonia Stassi was found dead in Astoria, Queens and her killer was never found. No matter how much time passes, our quest for justice continues. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding her death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. All tips are confidential. Advocating For Our Rights The Chinese Christian Herald Crusades, NYC Commission on Human Rights, and the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs hosted a virtual seminar titled Asian Voices: Advocating for Our Rights in NYC. I spoke about this office's dedication to protecting all Queens residents, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or who they love. I also encouraged the general public to remain vigilant about reporting hate or bias-motivated crimes to our dedicated Hate Crimes Bureau at 718-286-7010. We're here to help. First But Not The Last I had the pleasure of participating in a special panel this week by the Center For The Women of New York, titled "First But Not The Last," to commemorate Women's History Month. I was joined by the NYPD's first female Chief of Patrol, Juanita Holmes, and spoke about my experience of becoming the first woman elected to serve as the Queens County District Attorney. As women, we still face many obstacles, but this month, let us celebrate how far we've come and pay tribute to those who paved the way. Women's History Month Celebration
From: Queens Borough President's Office
March 19, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, This week, I appeared in Court to request the dismissal of nearly 700 cases where people were detained, arrested and charged with loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution and prostitution-related crimes. Since taking office, I did not prosecute a single person charged with the vague loitering law that far too often targeted women, trans people and people of color based solely on their appearance. Last month, the State Legislature took important action by repealing Penal Law 240.37. Dismissing cases related to this unfair and now repealed statute was the appropriate next step in our commitment to brave justice. The motion frees members of our community from the collateral consequences of their arrests and includes hundreds of outstanding warrants on pending cases under Penal Law 230.00 (prostitution) and related charges. Many of these individuals have had otherwise unblemished records stained by arrests from as long as 20 and 30 years ago. I extend my deepest gratitude to Queens Criminal Court Chief Administrative Judge Joanne B. Watters, Queens Acting Supreme Court Justice Toko Serita, Chief Clerk of the NY City Criminal Court Justin Barry, and Queens Criminal Court Borough Chief Clerk Carey Wone for facilitating this application. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Queens resident charged with murder in shooting death of 33-year-old man in Hollis Rehab center social worker charged with grand larceny for stealing nearly $150,000 from 90-year-old patient Queens soccer coach indicted for sexually assaulting student over five year period Celebrating Women's History
From: Queens Borough President's Office
March 23, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
From: Queens Borough President's Office
May 7, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, The Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice announced the expansion of the City’s violence interrupter network into the 105th Precinct in eastern Queens, as part of the the City’s Safe Summer NYC Plan. The goal of this expansion is to address public safety concerns in the Laurelton, Rosedale, and Springfield Gardens neighborhoods by utilizing cure violence groups to mediate conflict and connect high-risk individuals to services that can steer them away from a path of violence. I have said it many times - we cannot prosecute our way out of this problem. As we go after the gun runners and drivers of violence in Queens County, the safest borough is one where we also work with our young people to make sure they never become part of the criminal justice system. The City’s violence interrupter network has proven to be effective in reducing crime and violence. We look forward to working together to ensure the safety of all those who live, work, and visit Queens County. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Long Island man indicted on attempted murder charges for ramming SUV into unmarked police car that nearly struck detective standing outside vehicle Scams Targeting Grandparents I continue to urge everyone to stay vigilant about a scam that is affecting so many of our seniors here in Queens County. Seniors are being targeted on a daily basis by sophisticated phone scammers pretending to be a grandchild or other loved one in trouble and needing cash for bail. This con has been used so often that it's called the Grandparent Jail Bail Scheme. Please be wary of any call where you are asked to send cash. Do not agree to give money to a stranger without verifying all information. If you are targeted, or would like additional information, you may contact our Elder Abuse Unit at 718-286-6578 or ElderFraud@queensda.org. Restoring Voting Rights This week, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation that would restore voting rights to formerly convicted felons upon their release from prison. The law expands on a 2018 executive order that the Governor signed that allowed parolees to apply for a voting pardon before being able to register to vote. I believe that this new law is an enormous leap forward for restorative justice and rehabilitation efforts for formerly incarcerated individuals. Those who have paid their debt to society should have a say in their communities with the right to vote. For more information, click here. Information Needed As part of our regular call for help, we are asking for any information regarding the death of Leslie Zaret, whose body was found near PS 203 in Bayside, Queens almost 48 years ago. No matter how much time passes, our quest for justice does not diminish. If you have any information, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential! Celebrating and Protecting AAPI Heritage I had the pleasure of joining State Senator John Liu and his colleagues for a celebration in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. My office honors the great many contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to our nation. We also remain committed to protecting the rich diversity of Queens County against all forms of hate. If you believe you've been a victim, or have evidence of a hate crime taking place, contact our Hate Crimes Bureau via 718-286-7010 or HateCrimes@queensda.org. Queens Chamber of Commerce The Chamber of Commerce hosted its Queens Day this week, a great annual tradition for our City and State elected officials to pay tribute to the rich diversity of commerce throughout our borough. My office maintains a responsibility to protect the revitalization of small businesses by ensuring that owners and workers remain safe from predatory scammers and fraudulent schemes. Our Frauds Bureau deals with a wide range of financial crimes, including embezzlement, organized theft, pattern commercial burglaries and others. If you believe you've been a victim, contact the Bureau via 718-286-6673 or Frauds@queensda.org. We're here to help. Queens Community Violence Prevention Project As a reminder, the deadline for applications for proposals to implement the Queens Community Violence Prevention Project is May 10th, 2021 by 4pm EST. The goals are to increase community engagement in anti-gun violence activities and initiatives, strengthen community-led responses to violent incidents, develop better connections to support services, enhance positive relations with the NYPD and ultimately reduce violent crime. I urge all those who are interested to visit https://queensda.org/special-initiatives/ for additional information and application download. Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
December 23, 2021 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Our world is becoming more digital every day, from leisure social media activity to remote working hours and even telehealth doctor visits. Technology has also become an important part of our currency, with cryptocurrency rising in popularity around the globe. Just as we ensure the safety of Queens residents against criminal dealings on the ground, my Office stands at the ready to hold accountable those who seek to illegally profit from the digital industry. This week, I announced grand larceny charges against a Queens website consultant for allegedly stealing the proceeds of an online sale of more than 3,000 non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The defendant set up an online sale of digital artwork for his two clients and then allegedly diverted nearly $233,000 in SOL cryptocurrency to his personal digital wallets. My Office created the Cyber Crime Unit to handle such unique cases involving cryptocurrency, NFTs and transactions that are added to blockchains. Experienced prosecutors use all the digital and traditional tools at their disposal in order to delve into the virtual world we live in today and ensure justice for all victims of crime. In addition to allegations of cryptocurrency theft, the Cyber Crime Unit also handles complaints regarding cyber scams, inappropriate digital content, predatory behavior towards minors, and identity theft. If you believe that you have been a victim of a cyber crime, you may reach out to my Office by calling 718.286.6673 or emailing MajorEcoCrimes@queensda.org. We're here to help. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney In The Courts Network of drug dealers supplying illicit drugs in Queens, the Bronx and Nassau County dismantled following long-term investigation Rescued Animals I was relieved to recently learn that one of the dogs rescued from dog fighting conditions in Richmond Hill is now thriving with a loving family. The puppy pictured below, Benson, was one of 27 dogs rescued during the summer thanks to the invaluable efforts by the ASPCA and the NYPD Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad. My Office brought 92-counts of criminal charges against the defendant in this case, including charges of aggravated animal cruelty, prohibition of animal fighting and other crimes. Those who seek to harm our most vulnerable community members will be held accountable in Queens County. If you suspect animal abuse, call 311 or 911. You may also contact our Animal Cruelty Helpline at 718-286-6622. New Coats Giveaway The winter weather is officially here and, just as we do every year, my Office took the opportunity to co-sponsor coat giveaway events for Queens residents in Elmhurst and Far Rockaway. In partnership with Elmcor Youth and Adult Activities Center, Sheltering Arms, Agape Ministries, New York Cares, and other community leaders, we gave away hundreds of new coats to families in need. Office Toy Drive Following an Office-wide toy drive, our Community Partnerships Division collected thousands of toys generously donated by members of our staff, including dolls, balls, games, books, stuffed animals and so much more. The gifts were delivered to Hour Children, Inc. in Long Island City, a family shelter in Briarwood, and other select locations in hopes of bringing holiday cheer to children around the Borough. I thank my staff for their generosity this holiday season. Holiday Celebrations at Baisley Park Our communities have been through so much, they deserve festive holiday celebrations for themselves and their loved ones. It was wonderful to join the Baisley Park Tenants Association, LIFE Camp, Inc, Agape Ministries and Rev. Dr. Maria Hubbard, IROCK Charities, and many others for an event filled with games, prizes, toys for kids, gifts for seniors, and a coat giveaway. I especially extend my gratitude to Council Member Adrienne Adams for hosting this celebration for the community. Vaccine Pop-Up At Queens Borough Hall To beat back this latest wave of COVID infections, we must all continue to ensure safety for ourselves and loved ones. During the next few weeks, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is hosting a pop-up vaccination clinic at Borough Hall, in partnership with Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Department of Health. No appointments required! For a list of City-run sites, which are offering $100 incentives for first shots and boosters, click here. Christmas Greetings This holiday season continues to present many challenges for Queens communities but I am confident that we will overcome the obstacles placed in our way. To everyone celebrating across our Borough and our City this weekend, I wish you a very Merry Christmas. May your festivities be filled with warmth, joy, and most importantly, good health. Kwanzaa Greetings This Sunday marks the beginning of Kwanzaa, a seven-day celebration of African culture. To everyone celebrating, I wish you festivities filled with laughter, harmony and safety. May the light of this happy occasion bring togetherness and prosperity to your homes! Queens County District Attorney's Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org
From: Queens Borough President's Office
Dear Friends and Neighbors, I want to take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. I hope your day is filled with joy, good health and time spent with loved ones. I am especially grateful to serve the people of Queens County as the District Attorney. The trust that you have placed in me is never taken lightly. The members of my Office work diligently each and every day to make sure that this borough remains safe and just for all. We will not relent in our efforts to hold drivers of violence accountable while uplifting our communities and empowering our young people to make good choices. Together with our law enforcement partners, neighborhood residents, faith-based leaders, public officials, and violence interrupters, we will secure the vibrant future of this borough. Please take care and enjoy the holiday! In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney Queens County District Attorney Office | 125-01 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Unsubscribe requests@muckrock.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by info@queensda.org