December 17, 2021

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Recently, President Joe Biden issued a first-of-its kind United States Strategy on Countering Corruption. This strategy calls for increased law enforcement resources and improved information sharing between the intelligence communities across the nation that are devoted to anti-corruption efforts. This is the first time that a fight against corruption has been elevated as a core national security interest. I commend the President's efforts to root out criminal agents who undermine the public's trust and deplete essential public services for their own gain. On a local level, the Public Corruption Bureau within my Office was created solely to combat public corruption. It investigates cases of alleged corruption including: Wrongdoing by licensed attorneys Unauthorized practice of law Criminal impersonation of public officials Use of excessive force by police officers Election fraud Perjury The Bureau also investigates allegations against civilians who attempt to subvert the integrity of public servants by offering bribes. For more information, or to report a related-crime, you may reach out to the Bureau by calling 718.286.6560 or emailing PublicCorruption@queensda.org. We're here to help.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

In The Courts

Brooklyn lawyer charged with bilking PPP Covid Relief and SBA Disaster loan programs out of $287,000 with bogus claim of paying workers at St. Albans realty company Sex trafficker sentenced to up to nine years in prison after pleading guilty to forcing teen into prostitution Queens woman charged with scheme to steal the St. Albans home of an elderly veteran

Thomas E. Dewey Medal

Executive ADA Colleen Babb has brought tremendous experience and vision to our Community Partnerships division. Under her leadership, Community Partnerships has played a significant, visible role in each of the diverse neighborhoods in Queens, participating in more than 800 public events, engaging more than 400 local leaders who currently serve on our community advisory councils, awarding nearly $3.5 million in grants to deserving partner programs this year to help our young people and sponsoring gun buyback events to take hundreds of dangerous firearms off our streets. It was a delight to join the annual Thomas E. Dewey Medal ceremony in her honor, as well as to recognize the other five recipients: Odalys C. Alonso of Bronx County, Susan Axelrod of New York County, Michele Molfetta of Richmond County, Kelli M. Muse of Kings County and Lisa Tompkins of Special Narcotics.

Prosecutor of the Year Award

Senior ADA John Kosinski has had a tremendous career with the Office of the Queens District Attorney. He began working in this Office right after law school in 1991. ADA Kosinski excelled in all of his assignments while serving in Intake, Criminal Court, Homicide Investigations, Appeals, Felony Trials and Special Victims Units. Over the past 21 years, however, he has dedicated himself to investigating homicides in Queens County. ADA Kosinksi was selected by my Office as this year's recipient of the Prosecutor of the Year award, named after the late Hon. Richard A. Brown. I personally commend John on his outstanding efforts on behalf of the people of Queens County.

Information Wanted

On December 4, 2013, the body of Noel Hidalgo was found in Richmond Hill, Queens. Those responsible have yet to answer for this crime. As part of our weekly call for help, we are asking for any information regarding this case. Please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS or submitting an online form.

Holiday Toy Distribution

My Office co-sponsored a toy giveaway and holiday celebration event in collaboration with the NYC 100 Strong community advocacy organization in the Rockaways this week. Hundreds of children were able to enjoy the festivities, complete with entertainment performances, upon dismissal from their school day.

Farewell to Councilmember Daniel Dromm

Council Member Daniel Dromm cultivated a legacy of achievement for the Queens community. He has changed countless lives for the better. I was proud to have joined NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst for a moving farewell ceremony in Danny's honor. I wish him all the very best in this next chapter of his career and advocacy.

Warning For Seniors

My Office is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our senior citizens. If you or a senior you know has been a victim of fraud or financial exploitation, contact our Elder Fraud Unit at 718.286.6578 or ElderFraud@queensda.org. If someone who is 60 years of age or older becomes a victim of abuse, neglect, sexual misconduct or emotional intimidation, contact our Elder Abuse Project at 718.286.6562 or ElderAbuse@queensda.org.