May 9, 2025

My office secured grand jury indictments against 20 defendants charged in a sprawling auto-theft enterprise operation in New York City and its suburbs.

The indictments are the result of a long-term investigation by my office, the NYPD and New York State Police. The defendants are variously charged with enterprise corruption, grand larceny and criminal possession of 126 cars, 44 of which were purchased by undercover officers.

The stolen vehicles, ranging from Hondas to Dodge Hellcats to BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes and Land Rovers, are collectively valued at more than $4.6 million. They were often sold through social media advertisements for a fraction of the cost. 

This is one of the most prolific and organized auto theft rings we have ever uncovered -- and dismantled -- in New York City.

The monumental case serves as a warning to any other car thief: My office and our law enforcement partners will meticulously investigate and prosecute those who choose to steal other people’s property.

My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe.

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• A serial burglar was sentenced to up to 30 years in prison after being convicted in a jury trial of burglary, attempted burglary and other charges for a three-month crime spree spanning 2022 and 2023. The defendant broke into homes across Queens County and stole tens of thousands of dollars in cash, jewelry and designer handbags as well as passports and credit cards.
• A Queens man was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2022 murders of his girlfriend and two of her family members. The defendant was convicted by a jury last month of murder in the first degree and other counts for the incident. 

Agreement on Discovery

It was my honor to join Governor Kathy Hochul as she announced an agreement in the State Legislature to make essential changes to the existing discovery laws to ensure that survivors are protected, perpetrators of crime are held accountable and the rights of the accused are preserved.

I thank Governor Hochul, the State Senate and the State Assembly for their steadfast leadership and commitment to public safety. 

Photo credit: Office of New York State Governor Kathy Hochul

Information Wanted

If you have information regarding the death of Leon Antonio Clarke, who was shot and killed in Jamaica 24 years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

NYPD Officer Edward Byrne

In a recent conversation with ABC New York, I reflected on the 1988 murder of NYPD Officer Edward Byrne, shot and killed while protecting a witness in a drug case.

I recently sent a letter - my fourth correspondence - to the New York State Parole Board to oppose the release of the man convicted of Officer Byrne' execution-style murder.

This act was not merely a crime; it was a deliberate attempt to undermine public safety and instill fear in the police force, crime witnesses and the community at large. My office stands resolutely against parole for individuals who commit such heinous acts, reaffirming our commitment to accountability and justice. 

The Claire Shulman Pavilion at Queens Hospital

Claire Shulman, the first woman to serve as the Queens Borough President, was a trailblazer who dedicated her life to bettering the lives of all Queens residents. 

During her tenure as Borough President, Claire secured millions in capital funding for the extensive modernization of Queens Hospital, which raised the level of care and saved the hospital from privatization.

Thank you to Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and NYC Health + Hospitals for hosting a dedication event in Claire's honor. The Claire Shulman Pavilion at Queens Hospital will serve a testament to her remarkable legacy.

AAPI Heritage Month Celebration

As a reminder, join us for our annual celebration in honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

The festivities will take place at Queens College on Tuesday, May 13.

Please see the below flyer for additional information and click here to register.