September 27, 2024

Gun buybacks are an incredibly effective way to get firearms off our streets. These initiatives allow residents to surrender firearms anonymously, no questions asked, in exchange for compensation. 

This past Saturday, working with the NYPD and community leaders and clergy in Jamaica, we received 76 guns – including five assault weapons.

Every firearm surrendered represents a move away from potential tragedy and heartache. 

Since I initiated such events as the Queens District Attorney, we have taken 543 firearms out of our communities. 

I thank our partners and co-sponsors: the NYPD, New York City Police Foundation, Office of New York State Attorney General Letitia James, First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica, Food Bazaar Supermarket, State Senator Leroy Comrie and Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman, for helping us to host this important event.

Gun violence will never be accepted as the norm in our city and my office remains steadfast in our efforts to eliminate this plague from our streets.

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 woman was convicted of murder for the killing of Jim Li, a renowned activist and immigration attorney in Flushing. The defendant lied on her asylum paperwork and killed the victim after he dropped her as a client.
• A Queens man has been indicted on murder and weapon charges for allegedly stabbing his wife to death inside of her place of employment on Kissena Boulevard in Flushing.
• A Queens man has been indicted on predatory sexual assault, rape in the first degree and other charges for the June attack on a 13-year-old girl and her friend in Kissena Park.
• Three men were indicted on 41 charges including kidnapping, robbery and burglary. The trio allegedly strong-armed their way into a Douglaston residence last month and held a family, including children and the elderly, hostage with weapons and threats.

National Day of Remembrance

September 25 marks the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims, a solemn occasion when we come together as a community to commemorate the lives of homicide victims and to stand in solidarity with their surviving family members. 

We gathered at Baisley Pond Park this week for a heartfelt ceremony to pay tribute to those we have lost and offer our support to the loved ones left behind.

We recognize the immense pain and loss that families endure. We are committed to providing support and advocacy for those navigating the challenges that follow such tragic events.

If you have information regarding the death of Antonia Stassi, who was found stabbed to death in Astoria 25 years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

2024 Fall Festival

It was a pleasure to attend the annual Mid-Autumn Festival hosted by Council Member Sandra Ung and The Glow Cultural Center.

This vibrant event brought together families and community members for a day filled with entertainment, engaging family activities, and valuable information on community resources.

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

We invite you to the 2024 Queens District Attorney's Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, taking place on Tuesday, October 1, at Cafe Rubio Restaurant. 

The event presents an opportunity for us to come together as a community, reflect on our shared heritage, and celebrate the contributions of Hispanic individuals and families in Queens.

Registration is required. Please click here to RSVP.