May 31, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

My office secured an indictment on a murder charge against a Florida man for the 2009 stabbing death of his 64-year-old uncle, Rosario Prestigiacomo. The 15-year-old cold case was solved through forensic genetic genealogy, making it the first time a homicide suspect was identified and arrested in New York City through the use of public genealogy databases.  DNA from a discarded fork used by the defendant this past February was matched to the original DNA evidence recovered at the crime scene. I formed a Cold Case Unit to bring closure to grieving families and seek justice on behalf of victims. Defendants should not be able to evade justice no matter how much time has passed. This case is an example of the perseverance and determination of the investigators on this, and every cold case, and highlights the successful partnership formed between my office and the NYPD Cold Case Squad. We will not rest until justice is served on behalf of all unsolved homicide victims and their loved ones. My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Conversation on the Danger of Ghost Guns

I recently sat down with Marc Beckman of the Some Future Day podcast for an important conversation on the prevalence of ghost guns and the efforts of my office to dismantle their pipeline. Queens is leading all of New York City in the total number of ghost gun recoveries for the fourth year in a row, with 63% of all ghost guns recovered citywide year to date. My office will continue to fight the gun plague with all our might and resources.  You can listen to the full conversation by clicking here or below.

Memorial Day Parades

It was an honor to commemorate the heroic sacrifice of our veterans at the Memorial Day parades in Forest Hills and College Point over the weekend. Together with all Queens communities, my office stands in heartfelt gratitude to the courageous men and women of the Armed Forces.

Jewish American History Month

The accomplishments and strength of the Jewish community were on full display during our annual Jewish American Heritage Month celebration at Queens College. It was a pleasure to honor so many notable leaders for their exceptional dedication to serving their communities. I would also like to thank our co-sponsors: Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, Chazaq, Queens Hillel and the Queens Jewish Community Council.

AAPI Celebration

The Chinese American Planning Council recently organized a successful AAPI Heritage Month celebration aimed at raising funds to enhance their support for low-income, immigrant and Asian communities. The event not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of the AAPI community but also highlighted the organization's commitment to providing essential programs and services to those in need.

Happy Pride!

As Pride Month starts tomorrow, I want to take the opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of my office to support members of the LGBTQ+ community in the fight for justice, inclusion and equality. To that end, I will be proudly marching in the Queens Pride Parade and Multicultural Festival in Jackson Heights this Sunday, June 2. Hope to see you there!