July 3, 2026

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This week we announced two separate gang takedowns as part of our effort with our NYPD partners to curtail summer crime.

A total of of 22 reputed members of the Blitz Gang 4 (BG4) street gang were charged in a 97-count indictment with attempted murder, weapon possession, conspiracy and other crimes following a long-term investigation into multiple shootings in Southeast Queens that date back to 2023.

We allege that they unleashed violence in pursuit of territorial dominance.

According to the investigation, the defendants were responsible for:

• 11 shootings
• One stabbing
• Three injuries including to a man who is now paralyzed
• Utilizing 17 different guns

In the second takedown, five defendants were indicted for their roles in a shooting spree in the Rockaways that wounded two people in March and April.

We will continue our campaign to dismantle violent criminal enterprises and rid our neighborhoods of the scourge of gang and gun violence.

My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe.

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• Ten people were indicted for allegedly running a large-scale drug trafficking operation in Jamaica that included bringing cocaine, heroin, fentanyl and other narcotics into Queens. The long-term investigation resulted in the seizure of 10 kilos of cocaine worth more than $250,000.
• A 29-year-old Oakland Gardens man pleaded guilty to manslaughter and vehicular manslaughter for driving while intoxicated in February 2025 and slamming his Mercedes-Benz into a car driven by 23-year-old Justin Diaz, killing him. He faces up to 12 years in prison at sentencing.

Information Wanted

If you have any information about the death of Demika Moore, whose body was found in an alley behind a row of houses on Leslie Road nearly 16 years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

The 100th Precinct Community Council Visit

It was a pleasure to join the 100th Precinct Community Council meeting and speak with residents about the work my office is doing to keep our communities safe. From combating scams and financial crimes to supporting victims and strengthening public safety partnerships, we remain committed to protecting every Queens resident.

Lunching with the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce

Local businesses help shape the character and landscape of our communities. That's why I was more than happy to speak at the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce luncheon recently to thank the members for their hard work and to talk to them about what we're doing to help our commercial community grow.

Our Merchants Business Improvement Program helps local shops combat dangerous, disruptive or illegal activity at their establishments. Merchants can reach out to their local police precinct to join the program.

Celebrating 250 Years!

I had the distinct honor of joining other elected officials for Sen. John Liu's Celebration of America's 250th Birthday at Francis Lewis High School. The festivities included the creation of a time capsule to be opened 50 years from now — on America's 300th birthday.

As our nation approaches this historic milestone, events like these bring communities together to reflect on our shared history, celebrate our diversity and look ahead with optimism. I extend my heartfelt wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday.

QDA Mobile Office is Coming to Hillcrest and Jamaica

Meeting Queens residents where they live and play, the DA’s Mobile Office provides an opportunity to get the answers you need. Our latest stop was at the Langston Hughes Library in Corona where QDA staff talked to residents and shared information about services and resources.

Please join us for the next mobile office visits on July 9 at the Hillcrest branch and July 23 at the Central Library on Merrick Boulevard.

Happy 250th Birthday America!

Tomorrow we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America and the enduring ideals of freedom, justice and the opportunities that define our nation. As we honor this historic milestone, we also recommit ourselves to building safer communities, upholding the rule of law and ensuring every New Yorker can live with dignity and equal justice. Happy 250th, America!