Dear Friends and Neighbors, |
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When I became District Attorney in January 2020, I pledged to pursue what I call brave justice – keeping the communities of Queens safe while helping to create a more equitable criminal justice system.
To accomplish this, we have focused squarely on prosecuting the drivers of crime and violence in Queens while working tirelessly to make the system fairer, even if that meant taking a close, hard look at the way justice was dispensed in the past.
Two significant developments in recent weeks stress my commitment:
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Last week, my Office and the NYPD announced the indictment of 28 individuals on charges of murder, attempted murder, conspiracy, weapons possession and related charges. As alleged, the defendants are members of warring gang factions that had been shooting each other, often in broad daylight, often with innocent bystanders nearby, and terrorizing the communities of the Queensbridge and Ravenswood housing developments in Long Island City and Astoria. With this indictment, we are making it clear that, block-by-block and for as long as it takes, we will not allow gun violence to become the norm in Queens.
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This week, I joined a motion to free a man who had been in prison for 32 years. Carlton Roman had been convicted in 1990 for murder and attempted murder. An extensive investigation by our Conviction Integrity Unit found substantial new evidence contradicting the trial testimony used to convict Mr. Roman. When we find miscarriages of justice, as we did in Mr. Roman’s case, we must do everything in our power to correct them. The Conviction Integrity Unit has helped overturn eight convictions since I became District Attorney.
I am determined to ensure that no community is terrorized by those who demonstrate a complete lack of regard for human life. I am also committed to the fair administration of justice.
In the last two weeks, we have shown that, with hard work, a sense of fairness and a steady hand, these goals can be achieved.
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In Friendship,
Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney
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Queens man pleads guilty to robbery spree for series of car jackings, bogus test drives and hold-ups at gunpoint
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Queens man sentenced to prison for hit and run crash that killed teenager on scooter
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Bronx man charged with murder for deadly stabbing of Queens divorce attorney
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Bronx man charged with assault and other crimes for shooting into MTA bus
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If we want our kids to make good choices, we have to provide them with quality opportunities. I joined the NYPD and the NYC Housing Authority yesterday to unveil a renovated basketball court at Queensbridge Houses. This project is the culmination of our shared efforts to provide a safe and beautiful place that belongs to every child in this community. We want them to have safe, productive activities available in their neighborhood.
Bringing new life to these courts -- and other playgrounds and programs currently underway – is a keen investment in the future of Queens County.
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Celebrating Ecuadorian Heritage |
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Our diversity is our greatest strength and this Office is committed to safeguarding the many vibrant cultures that call Queens home. I was proud to have participated in the 32nd Annual Ecuadorian Day Parade in Jackson Heights and celebrate the heritage of Ecuadorians across the borough.
I also thank the Ecuadorian Civic Committee, the sponsor of the parade, for serving the most vulnerable people in our community. Their countless hours of effort servicing our neighbors during the pandemic has had a lasting impact.
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Youth Development and Crime Prevention |
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As a weekly reminder, the deadline for applications for proposals to implement the Queens DA's Youth Development and Crime Prevention project is September 24, 2021.
The work solicited in this request will provide youth activities and wrap around services as part of a more holistic approach to helping young people reduce criminal justice involvement and increase engagement in recreational, academic and career development activities. You may visit https://queensda.org/special-initiatives/ for additional information and application download.
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Today marks 10 years since the death of Michilene DiGirolomo, who was shot and killed in Jamaica, Queens. Those responsible have yet to answer for this crime.
If you have any information, no matter how trivial the details may seem, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential!
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Tomchei Shabbos - an all volunteer organization that supplies Sabbath and Holiday meals to hundreds of families in need in Queens - recently hosted an annual Night of Appreciation. This event is used to thank the hundreds of volunteers who give of their time to organize and distribute food throughout the borough.
I joined Tomchei President Shimi Pelman, Rabbi Aron Katz, and community leaders in thanking the hundreds of volunteers who give of their time to organize and distribute food throughout the borough.
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Dunton Civic Association Community Garden hosted a community "Chalk Art" block party in Jamaica this past weekend, which was a free family event with a colorful obstacle course. Children were provided with a safe space to have fun and create chalk murals near their homes. I was able to stop by and speak to the local residents about issues of importance to them and their families. |
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Hong Kong Dragon Festival |
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It was a pleasure joining community members and elected officials for the returning Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at Flushing Meadows Corona Park this past weekend. Last year's festival was canceled because of the pandemic but it was great to see everyone safely in person once again.
I extend my congratulations to Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and his "Queens Rising" team for winning the race!
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