September 16, 2022

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

In an effort to keep you apprised of crime trends we're seeing throughout the Borough, I want to urge everyone to be careful when buying from and selling to strangers online. The digital age has helped us stay better connected and opened new opportunities in the world of e-commerce. However, bad actors often take advantage of these new tools to prey on unsuspecting individuals. My Office has seen an increase in criminal behavior involving sale transactions secured through websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. That is why I encourage everyone to take safety measures before meeting with an unknown party to conduct personal business: Agree to meet near a local Police Precinct or otherwise, in well-lit, high-trafficked areas Consider taking a cellphone photo of the person you're meeting as soon as you see them Refrain from meeting strangers alone; there is always strength in numbers As always, if you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime, my Office is here to help. Contact us at 718-286-6000 or via info@queensda.org.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Select Cases of Interest

Defendant charged with anti-Semitic attack in Far Rockaway Two defendants indicted on sex trafficking and promoting prostitution charges Defendant pleads guilty in visa scam; over $90,000 in restitution secured for victims Defendant awaiting trial on assault charges indicted for allegedly hiring hitman to kill main witness

9/11 Commemoration

Throughout last weekend, I was honored to have participated in several September 11th commemoration ceremonies to remember the lives we lost and to pay tribute to the countless heroes who emerged in the wake of tragedy. We will never forget.

Information Wanted

As part of our regular call for help, we are asking for any information regarding the 2003 murder of four family members in their own home in Jamaica. Help us bring justice on behalf of the victims and their loved ones. If you have any details to report, I urge you to contact NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential and can be submitted anonymously!

Conversation About Labor

I had the pleasure of hosting State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon for a conversation with my Labor and Social Services Advisory Councils. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our workforce is crucial to keeping this City and Borough running. I thank her for her leadership and thoughtfulness when it comes to providing services to our workers and businesses.

Conversation Over Basketball

One of the best parts of my job is meeting with the youngest members of our community to discuss their future aspirations. The NYPD Community Affairs recently hosted a Classic Basketball Tournament at the O’Connell Park complete with food, a backpack giveaway, music, live entertainment and more. The Youth Empowerment team from my Office was on-site to discuss some of our year-round programs and internships available for school aged children. Anyone interested in finding out more information can email YouthEmpowerment@queensda.org or call 718.286.6440.

Gun Buyback Program

On Saturday, September 24th, join us at the Calvary Assembly of God Church for our gun buyback event. If you surrender an operable firearm, you will receive a $200 bank card and an iPad (while supplies last). If you turn in two or more operable firearms, you will receive an additional $250 Food Bazaar Gift Card. No questions asked!