November 25, 2022

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

When I created the Human Trafficking Bureau upon taking office in 2020, I was determined to thwart sex and labor trafficking crimes in this borough. Queens County is, unfortunately, uniquely vulnerable to this illegal industry because of our proximity to two international airports and a large immigration population. Though my Office has seen too many cases of individuals subjected to sex and labor services against their will, we have been adamant in our efforts to fight back. Earlier this week, I announced two guilty pleas from two defendants to sex trafficking and rape charges for forcing three underage victims to have sex with strangers for cash in February 2021. They will each receive a 10-year prison term at sentencing as punishment for their actions. Over the last six weeks, the Human Trafficking Bureau in my Office has secured a total of 12 convictions on sex trafficking charges - 10 of them for trafficking of a child - against six defendants, as well as an additional two pleas on rape in the first degree. This data alone highlights our mission to remove the most unscrupulous and callous predators from our communities. At the same time, we continue to connect survivors with meaningful services, support, and tools to enable them to safely escape their situations. This Office is a safe haven for all victims of human trafficking regardless of their social, economic, or immigration status. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Select Cases of Interest

Defendant sentenced for threatening to shoot motorist over parking spot Queens father charged with murder in death of 3-year-old son Queens man sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for fatal rampage over parking spot in 2017

Anti-Hate Crimes Legislation

In the wake of the devastating shooting targeting LGBTQ+ members in Colorado, and the foiled hate crime planned against the Jewish community right here at home, I assure you that my Office will utilize all resources to investigate and prosecute hate crimes in this county. Even if the crime is not deemed bias-based under State law, we will still prosecute the underlying crime to the fullest extent.  Hate crimes must be attacked from several angles. That's why I commend Governor Kathy Hochul for signing new legislation this week requiring individuals convicted of hate crimes to undergo mandatory training or counseling in hate crime prevention and education. She has also established a statewide campaign for acceptance and understanding of diversity. These efforts, coupled with our ongoing prosecutorial work, will help deter hate crimes in our communities.

Guns Off Our Streets

A total of 32 operable firearms were collected during our most recent gun buyback event with the NYPD in Far Rockaway. Since I initiated such events as the District Attorney, we have taken more than 400 guns off the streets of Queens County. Each of these guns is a move away from potential destruction and heartache. Gun violence will never become the norm in our communities, and we will continue to make every determined effort to rid our streets of this plague.  I thank the event co-sponsors for their partnership and dedication to public safety.

Active Cold Case

As part of our regular call for help, we are asking for any information regarding the stabbing death of Priscilla Pimentel, killed inside a home in Richmond Hill.  Help us obtain justice on behalf of Priscilla and her loved ones. If you have any information, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS or submitting a tip online. Remember, all tips are confidential and can remain anonymous!

Turkey Giveaway

While we prosecute drivers of crime, we continue to reach out to our community partners to ensure the people of Queens have what they need. It was a pleasure joining the NYPD DESI Society for their annual turkey drive and food giveaway ahead of Thanksgiving.  I thank our faith-based partners at the Ozone Park Church of the Nazarene for hosting this important distribution event.

Beware of Scams

With the holiday season squarely upon us, it is important to beware of scammers and fraudsters, who seek any opportunity to exploit their victims. Make sure to never send money to anyone you do not know without verifying the information. Don't ever feel pressured into making a quick decision. If you feel you've been a victim, reach out to our Frauds Bureau at 718-286-6673 or Frauds@queensda.org. We're here to help.