February 21, 2025

My office announced this week that a defendant faces 20 years in prison on kidnapping and robbery charges for three disturbing incidents that took place in July and August 2022.

The defendant forced one victim into prostitution and held her against her will, while two others were brutally assaulted, restrained and robbed after answering a prostitution ad. The defendant and his co-conspirator repeatedly threatened to kill the victims' families if they reported the crime to police.

Thanks to the relentless work of my Human Trafficking Bureau and the bravery of the victims who came forward, this defendant’s reign of violence and exploitation is now over.

The strength of our case led to a guilty plea yesterday and we expect him to be sentenced to 20 years in prison during a scheduled court appearance next month.

The female co-defendant in this case pleaded guilty in 2023 and was sentenced to 13 years in prison to be followed by five years post-release supervision.

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 was indicted and arraigned on first-degree murder and other charges for the fatal gunpoint robbery of 22-year-old Kyle Griffin in April 2021. The defendant and an unapprehended accomplice entered Griffin’s vehicle, demanded the personal items of those in the car, then both shot Griffin as he tried driving away.
• Surveillance video has been released in the hopes of finding new information regarding the death of 28-year-old John Jeff, an off-duty New York City Correction Officer. John was shot and killed four years ago at the corner of Defoe and Ridgedale Streets in Springfield Gardens.

Information Wanted

If you have information regarding the death of Marisha Cheong, who was found killed and bound at the hands in Breezy Point 12 years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

Black History Month Celebration

Every February, we proudly gather to celebrate the heritage of Black culture, achievement, legacy and shared American experience.

Our borough is a vibrant mosaic of diverse backgrounds and we take pride in its significant role in the broader story of Black history. By empowering our community and fostering collaborative initiatives, we continue to honor this legacy while encouraging residents to actively engage in civic activities that uplift underserved populations.

Outreach Event with the Sikh Community

Members of my Community Partnerships Division recently collaborated with the United Sikhs organization to educate residents about hate crime laws, tenant and landlord rights, and the proper procedures for reporting crimes.

This outreach initiative notably emphasized the importance of immigrant rights, reinforcing the message that protection and support are available to everyone, regardless of their immigration status.

Youth Empowerment Programs

We recently launched the spring cohort of our Legal Explorers program with a presentation on the prosecution process by an Assistant District Attorney from the Homicide Bureau.

Over the next several weeks, the Legal Explorers will have the opportunity to learn more about the criminal justice system and possible future careers in the legal field. For more information on the youth programs we offer, email YouthEmpowerment@queensda.org or call 718-286-6400.

Homeowners Deed Protection & Squatter Information Webinar

As a reminder, 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.