December 12, 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I was joined by Gov. Kathy Hochul and State Police officials this week to announce the largest organized theft prosecution in Queens County history. Thirteen individuals were charged in a 780-count indictment with stealing more than $2.2 million from Home Depot stores across nine different states.

The defendants systematically and repeatedly stole merchandise from 128 Home Depot stores as part of 319 individual thefts. Some locations were hit up to four times on the same day. 

These stolen items, including building materials, power tools, smoke alarms and air conditioners, were then resold to consumers, through a Brooklyn storefront or on Facebook Marketplace. 

Working with our law enforcement, we brought this brazen operation to a halt. The alleged crew members each face a potential maximum sentence of 15 and 25 years in prison, depending on their involvement.

Organized retail crime will not go unanswered in this borough. The dedicated prosecutors and detectives in my office will leave no stone unturned in finding and holding accountable those who drain our economy and endanger the public.

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

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• A jury convicted an Astoria man of attempted murder and other crimes for shoving his mother out of a third-floor window. The victim was seriously injured but fortunately survived and made the difficult decision to testify against her son at trial. The defendant faces up to 25 years in prison at sentencing.
• A defendant was charged with gang assault, riot and other crimes for beating a Malba neighborhood couple during a November car meetup that turned the residential area into an impromptu racetrack.

Library Groundbreaking Celebration

A large responsibility of the Queens District Attorney is fostering strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities we serve.

As Borough President, I was proud to allocate $12 million for the revitalization of the Rego Park Library. The resulting $39 million project will create a state-of-the-art neighborhood resource.

As DA, it is important to continue showing up for the communities I have long supported, and it was a privilege to join local leaders at this week’s groundbreaking. Libraries are invaluable spaces where children can learn, explore their creativity and know that there are people who care deeply about their future.

Information Wanted

If you have any information about the unidentified male found deceased on Broad Street near Kennedy International Airport almost 23 years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

Girl Power Holiday Celebration

It was a pleasure to attend the Center for the Women of New York's Girl Power Holiday Celebration this week. This second annual event honored four remarkable students who are making their mark in our community.

Making connections with young people is one of the reasons it is so important to be out in the community attending these events. 

Queens Civic Congress Reception

The Queens Civic Congress’ annual Legislative Reception is always a great opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful work of civic association members who dedicate so much time and energy to improving our communities.

Thank you all for the work you do and I look forward to another year of collaboration to make Queens County safer and better for all who live and work in our borough.

The QDA Annual Toy Giveaway