February 14, 2025

My office, in partnership with the NYPD, has been investigating the cold case murder of an off-duty New York City correction officer that took place on August 15, 2020.

The victim, 28-year-old John Jeff, was shot and killed following a verbal altercation at the corner of Defoe and Ridgedale Streets in Springfield Gardens.

Although cases sometimes go cold, they are never forgotten. This week, I spoke with ABC7NY about newly released surveillance video of that tragic incident, hoping to generate new leads.

We hope that by publicly releasing this surveillance footage, we will bring more attention to this senseless unsolved murder.

I urge anyone with any information regarding the homicide of John Jeff to come forward and help us bring justice for John and his loved ones.

You may contact NYPD Crimestoppers via 800-577-TIPS or via the online link. All tips are confidential and a $30,000 reward is being offered.

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

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• A married couple has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted murder for the stabbing and baseball bat attack of their neighbor in March 2023. The assault stemmed from a previous dispute between the couple and the victim over a parking spot in the neighborhood.
• A Queens gang leader has been found guilty of murder in the second degree for the death of a 22-year-old Bronx man during a broad daylight shooting in Rufus King Park in Jamaica. The October 2020 murder stemmed from a marijuana deal gone wrong.
• A Brooklyn man has been charged with burglary, grand larceny, assault and other crimes in connection with a pattern of home burglaries that took place between October and February. The defendant is alleged to have entered homes through windows and taken jewelry and other items.

Annual Legislative Breakfast

It was a pleasure hosting Queens elected officials for our annual legislative breakfast to discuss the work of this office to keep the borough safe while ensuring the fair administration of justice.

I am honored to serve as the District Attorney and will continue to lead with a steady hand toward a safer and brighter future. 

Inauguration of Assembly Member Larinda Hooks

I was glad to attend and speak at the inauguration ceremony of my good friend and New York State Assembly Member Larinda C. Hooks.

Representing the neighborhoods of East Elmhurst, LeFrak City, and parts of Corona, Elmhurst and Rego Park, Assembly Member Hooks brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to advocating for the needs of our diverse communities. I look forward to working with her office on issues of importance to Queens residents.

ASPCA Grooming Event

My office was proud to recently co-sponsor a pet grooming and vaccination event with the ASPCA, underscoring our commitment to the wellbeing of pets and their owners in our community.

Responsible pet ownership is not just a privilege; it is a serious obligation that requires education and resources. By collaborating with the ASPCA, we aim to equip pet owners with the knowledge and tools necessary for proper pet care, ensuring that our furry companions are healthy and safe. 

Homeowners Deed Protection & Squatter Information Webinar

My office, in partnership with Assembly Member Edward Braunstein, will present a Deed Protection and Squatter Information webinar on Wednesday, February 26, starting at 6 p.m.

Registration is required. RSVP for this online event by clicking here or on the flyer below.

Black History Month Celebration

As a reminder, join us in celebrating Black History Month at the Black Spectrum Theater on February 19.

The program will begin at 6 p.m., with refreshments preceding the festivities.

Advance registration is required. Please click here to RSVP. You may also email civicawareness@queensda.org for more information or to reserve your spot.