July 7, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Small businesses are essential to our borough's growth and prosperity. That's why it's important to ensure a safe environment for local merchants, their employees, and consumers. We secured an 11-year prison sentence last month for a defendant involved in a robbery spree that hit 10 locations, including gas stations and convenience stores, in November 2022. Two other defendants in this same case have pleaded guilty and will be sentenced this month. That same month, a Queens defendant received a 25-year prison sentence for shooting a deli owner in Briarwood in an attempt to steal cash from the store's register. Most recently, my office began building a case against a suspect accused of using a blowtorch to steal secured merchandise from a store in Astoria, as well as several other incidents across the borough. We will be holding this individual accountable and aggressively prosecuting anyone trying to hold our local economy hostage by robbing stores, assaulting their owners and staff or intimidating customers.  At the same time, we will continue working in close partnership with the NYPD, members of the business community and local elected leaders to expand our Merchants Business Improvement Program, designed to enhance safety in and around local shops.   My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe.  In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Selected Cases of Interest

Albany resident sentenced to seven years for drag-racing crash that killed hospital worker Manhattan man sentenced to eight years for robbery in connection with purse snatchings targeting older women Brooklyn man sentenced to 11 years for series of convenience store robberies Manhattan man pleads guilty to kidnapping in botched Richmond Hill home invasion

Take Caution Near Water

Summer is in full swing, providing opportunities to enjoy the borough’s beaches and public swimming pools. I'd like to encourage everyone to practice caution whenever you are near the water. A 14-year-old boy tragically drowned in the Rockaways last weekend, underscoring the importance of speaking to your children and loved ones about water safety. Beachgoers should only swim in areas monitored by lifeguards, pay close attention to their instructions, and take note of any flags and posted signs.

Help Solve This Case

If you have information on Denise Sheehy, who went missing 53 years ago today, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Learn About Our Internship

Our Brave Justice summer interns are hard at work learning from our experts about ethics, forensics, and hate crimes prosecutions. They also had the opportunity to visit the NYPD police academy to learn about the extensive curriculum and physical training that cadets go through to become one of New York's finest. For more info on our internship, visit: www.queensda.org/careers

Reach Out If You Need Help

If you're a victim of domestic violence, you do not have to suffer in silence. Our domestic violence helpline is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day and can connect you with an Assistant District Attorney or a service provider. You are not alone. We're here to help.