March 11, 2022

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This week marks National Consumer Protection Week, a time to spread awareness about trending scams and fraudulent activity and help consumers understand their rights. On Tuesday, I hosted a webinar on Consumer Protection and Scam Prevention in collaboration with the NYC Department of Worker and Consumer Protection. During the webinar, experts from my Office and consumer protection representatives provided fraud prevention tips and resources for victims to report a crime. If you missed the webinar, you may watch it in full here. In 2021, there were 2.8 million reports of fraud totaling a loss of $5.8 billion nationwide. The financial loss represents a nearly 30% increase from 2020 and an even larger increase since 2019. Anyone can fall prey to sophisticated scams targeting consumers and we urge each of you to stay vigilant and help spread awareness regarding key prevention tips, including: Do NOT be pressured into making a quick decision. Take the time to verify and research the information being provided. Never send cash or gift cards as payment to someone you do not know. Agencies such as the Social Security Administration and the IRS will never ask for payment via gift card or cash. And finally, if you receive a call from someone claiming to represent my Office AND requesting payment in any form, hang up the phone because that is a scam. Always feel free to reach out to my Frauds Bureau with any questions or concerns at 718.286.6673 or frauds@queensda.org. We're here to help.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

In The Courts

Queens man sentenced to 20 years in prison for attempted murder; defendant stabbed two men in South Ozone Park in 2017 Queens man sentenced to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty to stabbing to death his son-in-law in 2019 Queens man sentenced to life in prison for 2012 killing of victim whose body was found amid beach debris following Hurricane Sandy Queens man pleads guilty to manslaughter in stabbing death of his wife

Ghost Guns Crackdown

Yesterday, I announced the largest-ever seizure of illegal ghost gun kits in New York State. For years, law enforcement has worked diligently to stop commercially manufactured firearms from entering New York illegally from down south by way of what we call the "Iron Pipeline.” Alarmingly, we now see ghost guns and ghost gun parts coming in the same way. There’s no place for these illegal, deadly, and untraceable weapons on our streets and we will continue to be vigilant in our efforts to break this new "Polymer Pipeline." Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with CNBC News for a conversation on ghost guns, which are increasingly being recovered at crime scenes all around the country. You may watch the full segment by clicking here.

Cold Case Information Wanted

As part of our weekly call for help, we are asking for any information regarding the death of Maurice Johnson, who was found killed in Rochdale, Queens ten years ago this week.  Those responsible have yet to answer for this crime. If you have any information regarding this case, don't hesitate to contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-8477 or filling out an online form. All tips are confidential.

Mock Trial Competition

This past weekend, my Office hosted its 7th Mock Trial Competition, the first under my administration. A total of 16 law schools from around the country participated virtually in this competition and tried a murder case under New York State law. Supreme Court and Criminal Court judges presided over the trials, senior prosecutors and members of the defense bar served as evaluators. The mock trial is crucial to the training of the next generation of attorneys, enabling them to sharpen their courtroom skills and hone their experience and intellect in lively competition. I congratulate the New York University School of Law for winning the competition by defeating 15 other teams from around the country in a series of trial meets.

Irish Heritage Celebration

It was wonderful seeing everyone in person again to celebrate Irish immigrant history and heritage in Queens during two parades this past weekend: St. Patrick's Day Parade in the Rockaways, and the St. Pats for All Parade in Sunnyside. Queens is a true melting pot of diversity in culture and traditions. I remain committed to safeguarding the rights of all those who live, work, and visit this great Borough.

Youth Employment Opportunities

Calling all youth, ages 14-24! The New York City Department of Youth and Community Development is accepting applications for the 2022 Summer Youth Employment Program. Participants receive the opportunity to explore their interests and career pathways, develop workplace skills and engage in learning experiences that help to develop their social, civic and leadership skills. Visit nyc.gov/SYEP to learn more about this year's program and to apply.