July 1, 2022

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Summer is in full swing and that means more time for outdoor adventures and swimming activities to beat the heat. However, I'd like to encourage everyone to practice caution whenever you are near the water. Ocean currents are often unpredictable and even the most experienced swimmers have a hard time navigating potential dangers such as rip currents and sudden drops in water levels. In Queens County, we have faced four tragic drownings in the Rockaways and in Jamaica Bay over the past few weeks, underscoring the importance of speaking to your children and loved ones about water safety.   All beachgoers should only swim in areas monitored by lifeguards, closely pay attention to the instructions of lifeguards, and take note of any flags and posted signs. Let's all do our part to ensure a safe and fun-filled summer!

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Potential Dangers of Unlicensed Drivers

I recently wrote an opinion piece for the New York Daily News on the importance of obtaining and maintaining a valid driver’s license before driving. A vehicle is capable of inflicting drastic damage. As Queens district attorney, I have seen firsthand far too many drivers with suspended and revoked licenses, and drivers who never bothered to get a license, involved in serious, sometimes fatal, collisions with other vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians. The time is now to take heed of this clear and present public safety hazard on our roadways. We must do all we can to help prevent these vehicular crimes and make our streets safer for all of us. Let’s start at the beginning: The requirement of a valid driver’s license before driving is not a suggestion.

New Executive Staff

I am pleased to announce the appointments of two executives who will assist in streamlining inter-office processes and enhance public safety protocols in this borough. I have appointed retired NYPD Assistant Chief Thomas Conforti as Chief Investigator and veteran prosecutor Theresa M. Shanahan as Executive Assistant District Attorney for Criminal Practice and Policy.  I look forward to working closely with Chief Conforti and EADA Shanahan on comprehensive policy and safety measures in benefit of Queens County residents.

Cold Case Unit

On April 14, 1995, Sofia Vale was found stuffed in the trunk of a stolen car which had been set on fire in Jamaica. She was last seen being dropped off at her home on April 9, 1995 in the vicinity of 2111 La Fontaine Avenue in the Bronx. Although cases sometimes grow cold, they are never forgotten. Our Cold Case Unit continues to investigate this murder alongside the NYPD Detectives from the Cold Case Squad. The NYPD recently made a video with the details of this case, which can be viewed here. If you have any information, contact NYPD Crimestoppers.

Domestic Violence Awareness

Our Community Engagement team was on-site for the Queens Defender's community Domestic Violence Awareness event, complete with free BBQ for Far Rockaway residents. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call our Helpline at 718.286.4410. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and you will have the options of connecting to an Assistant District Attorney or a service provider for assistance. You are not alone. We're here to help.

Detective Keith Williams Day

Detective Keith Williams was assigned to the Queens District Attorney's Squad for eight years before he was tragically killed by a prisoner in 1989. He was a dedicated officer, known for his generosity and commitment to mentoring young people. To this day, we continue to honor his life and service by participating in the annual Detective Keith Williams Day filled with engaging youth programming in his native Southeast Queens.

Warning for Seniors

Our office is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our seniors. With a rise in scams specifically targeting our older population, I urge everyone to be mindful of potentially fraudulent activity when you receive a phone call or a text asking for personally identifying information. Never feel pressured to send cash or sign documents you do not understand. If you or someone you know is a victim of elder fraud, contact our Elder Fraud Unit at 718-286-6578 or ElderFraud@queensda.org.