September 22, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

My office charged an unlicensed acupuncturist this week with assault, reckless endangerment and unauthorized practice of a profession. Yong De Lin is accused of administering treatments in a Flushing medical office that he was not licensed to perform that caused a woman's lungs to collapse. The importance of seeking healthcare from licensed professionals cannot be emphasized enough. As alleged, the defendant was not licensed, nor had even bothered to apply for licensure, and he very nearly killed his patient.  The difference between receiving health care from a competent, licensed professional or someone who is unlicensed can mean the difference between life and death. Licenses can be verified by checking with the New York State Education Department Office of the Professions. If you were treated by Lin, I urge you to contact my office’s Elder Fraud unit, at 718-286-6578, or elderfraud@queensda.org. Translation services are available. My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

Man charged with murder in shooting in South Richmond Hill Brooklyn man sentenced for stalking woman and setting her Forest Hills apartment on fire after she ended relationship Queens man charged with attempted murder in stabbing Man convicted of attempted murder for slamming a 6-year-old boy onto pavement

Cold Case

If you have information about Romeo Einstein Acuna, who was killed in Jackson Heights 21 years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Public Safety Town Hall in Woodhaven

Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar hosted an important town hall in Woodhaven this week on the topic of public safety, with a keynote speech from NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban.  The event provided an opportunity for local residents to connect directly with law enforcement officials about crime prevention, emergency preparedness, and community policing. Together, we will continue to create real solutions to public safety concerns that will strengthen our communities.

Senior Safety Summit

My office this week hosted the first in a series of Senior Safety Summits in recognition of Senior Appreciation Month. The summit is designed to update older adults on ways to deter deed theft, elder fraud and elder abuse. Unfortunately, seniors are often targeted by scam artists and must remain vigilant. Do NOT give money to anyone you do not know and always take the time to verify any information provided to you. Thank you to the Rochdale Village Senior Center for partnering with us for this informative event.

Donation to the Arts

I was honored to donate my late father's Steinway grand piano to the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College, where he often performed as the conductor of the Queens Symphony Orchestra. Thank you to Queens College President Frank Wu and the college for the warm reception in his honor. May the grand piano continue to inspire the next generation of artists.