August 15, 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

A squatter who unlawfully occupied a vacant single-family home in St. Albans has been sentenced to two to four years in prison this week, following a successful investigation and prosecution by my office's Housing and Worker Protection Bureau.

The defendant moved into the home shortly after the property was vacated by the rightful owners in 2024.

He went as far as listing the property as his official place of residence, and kept pit bulls on site.

Evidence gathered by my office revealed that he had no claim to the property.

This case makes clear that we will prioritize removing squatters and prosecute those who make illegal claims to property.

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

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• A Queens man has been indicted for shooting and killing his estranged wife and attempting to murder her daughter on a street in St. Albans in June.
• A defendant was indicted by a grand jury on charges of patronizing a person for prostitution, criminal solicitation and child endangerment. He is alleged to have approached a 14-year-old girl in Corona and asked her to perform a sex act in exchange for money.

Farewell to our Summer Interns

We recently bid farewell to this summer's Brave Justice interns.

The dedication of our college and law school students has enriched our work and helped foster professional growth, that will undoubtedly serve them well as they transition back to school. We take pride in witnessing the evolution of our interns and wish them all the best in their academic pursuits.

Information Wanted

If you have information regarding the death of an off-duty NYC Correction officer John Jeff, who was shot and killed in Jamaica five years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

Jazz in the Garden Luncheon

I joined the Federated Blocks of Laurelton for their annual Jazz in the Garden Luncheon to honor local scholarship recipients as they prepare for the next chapter in their educational journeys.

I thank the Federated Blocks of Laurelton for their continued commitment to empowering young people and for investing in the future of the borough through education and opportunity.

Rosedale Jets Annual Fish Fry

It was a pleasure to attend the annual fundraiser in support of the Rosedale Jets Football League. Under the leadership of Coach Jacques and Coach Corbett, the League continues to serve as a community pillar and provide mentorship for the youth of Southeast Queens.

Our civic associations play a vital role in shaping the culture of our communities. I look forward to the continued growth and development of the Rosedale Jets League.

Beware of Fraudulent Activity

Scammers are constantly finding new ways to target individuals — especially through phone calls, emails and online schemes.

My office remains committed to protecting you and your loved ones from fraud. If you believe you’ve been targeted, contact our Frauds Bureau at 718-286-6673 or frauds@queensda.org.