April 19, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

My office secured an indictment this week against an alleged squatter accused of illegally occupying a single-family home in Flushing and renting out rooms to others. The defendant was arraigned yesterday on a five-count indictment charging him with burglary, grand larceny, and other crimes. Recent media coverage has shed light on the complexities of property rights, but let me be clear: The law does not allow illegal residency. You cannot first enter a home without permission, then stay without permission and later claim vested rights simply because the legitimate owner is unaware or has been unable to remove you for 30 days.  Property ownership is a fundamental right, and my office will not allow individuals to exploit any confusion surrounding squatters' rights for personal gain. We stand firm in our commitment to uphold the law. My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

A 16-year-old was charged with first-degree assault, first-degree robbery and grand larceny for attacking an elderly woman on the steps of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Briarwood.  The driver in the shooting death of NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller was arraigned on an indictment we secured for a gun found in the car from which the fatal shot was fired by a codefendant on March 25. A Queens man was sentenced to 19 years in prison for attempted murder for shooting a 25-year-old victim inside the Kew Motor Inn in September 2022 and firing at another man who managed to escape.

Cold Case

It has been 11 years since Marisha Cheong was reported missing by her mother. Four months later, Marisha's body washed up in Breezy Point but her killer has yet to be brought to justice. I spoke with CBS2 news about this case, currently being handled by my Cold Case Unit. If you have information, I urge you to contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Conversation With NY1

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cheryl Wills of NY1 recently to discuss the great work of this office to hold the drivers of crime accountable while supporting survivors and empowering young people to make good choices. I also took a moment to reflect on my 30 years in public service. Thank you to the network for having me on "In Focus with Cheryl Wills."

Passover Food Distribution

The Met Council and Tomchei Shabbos of Queens recently partnered to distribute boxes of food to families in need, ensuring they can celebrate Passover with dignity and joy. As Passover begins next week, I'd like to wish everyone Chag Pesach Sameach!

Flushing Chinese Business Association

The Flushing Chinese Business Association works every day to serve local business owners and keep the economy in our borough thriving. FCBA held a press conference recently to announce plans for two celebratory events in honor of Mother's Day and Father's Day. I look forward to the festivities!

Beware of Scams Targeting Seniors