Dear Friends and Neighbors, |
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This week, I announced a 92-count complaint charging a Queens man with aggravated animal cruelty, prohibition of animal fighting and other crimes. This defendant kept more than two dozen pit bulls in filthy and dungeon-like enclosures with little food, clean water, light, or ventilation in the garage and basement of a Richmond Hill property. Several of the dogs bore dog bite wounds and scars typical of illegal dogfighting activities. This type of criminal behavior is never acceptable.
Pets and animals are meant to be protected and nurtured. In Queens, I will hold accountable those who choose to abuse them instead.
Thanks to the efforts of the NYPD Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad and the ASPCA, the animals have now been rescued from the deplorable conditions the defendant allegedly subjected them to and can no longer be bred for dogfighting.
This Office's Animal Cruelty Prosecution Unit will oversee the prosecution of this case.
If you suspect that an animal is being abused, neglected, or used in an organized fighting ring, I urge you to contact 311 or 911. You may also contact our Animal Cruelty Helpline by calling 718-286-6622.
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In Friendship,
Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney
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Queens man charged with transporting guns and ammo into New York after buying weapons at gun show in Pennsylvania
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Queens man indicted on vehicular homicide, DWI and other charges for crash that killed mother and daughter and injured defendant’s passengers
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Queens housekeeper indicted on grand larceny charges for allegedly embezzling over $72,000 from elderly employer’s bank account
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The NYPD, in partnership with the NYC Housing Authority and my office, held a public Town Hall meeting for the residents of Queensbridge Houses. I had the opportunity to attend and speak directly to members of the community about public safety concerns, crime reduction strategies and building programs that give young people the opportunity to make good choices. |
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Youth Development and Crime Prevention |
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As a weekly reminder, the deadline for applications for proposals to implement the Queens DA's Youth Development and Crime Prevention project is September 24, 2021.
The work solicited in this request will provide youth activities and wrap around services as part of a more holistic approach to helping young people reduce criminal justice involvement and increase engagement in recreational, academic and career development activities. You may visit https://queensda.org/special-initiatives/ for additional information and application download.
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This week marked 47 years since the body of teenager Leslie Zaret was found near PS 203 in Bayside, Queens. No matter how much time passes, our quest for justice on behalf of Leslie and her family does not diminish.
If you have any information, no matter how trivial the details may seem, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential!
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Our Youth Empowerment Bureau had a great time "Camping In The Park" at Baisley Pond Park last week. The free all-night event, hosted by NYPD Community Affairs, provided music, food, games and team-building exercises for our youngest community members.
The Queens DA Youth Empowerment Bureau hosts several programs throughout the year that focus on helping young people prepare for a path forward with career readiness. Visit our website to learn more.
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The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is warning people against scammers taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic to con people into giving up their money.
During this time of uncertainty, knowing about possible scams is a good first step toward preventing them. Please be aware that scammers may try to contact you and offer assistance in registering for unemployment benefits, Advance Child Tax Credit, student loan debt relief or even funeral expense compensation. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's website to learn more.
The Queens DA Frauds Bureau provides assistance to Queens residents and businesses who are victims of a wide variety of fraudulent and scam-related crimes. If you or someone you know has been a victim, contact our Frauds Bureau at 718-286-6673 or frauds@queensda.org. We're here to help.
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This Office stands in solidarity with the victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti that occurred last weekend. The situation has become more dire since the country was pelted by a tropical storm earlier this week.
For those searching for ways to support the people of Haiti, the Mayor's Office put together a website with information on organizations that are providing aid to those affected.
In addition, NYPD Precincts across the City are accepting supply donations. Residents may bring medical supplies, personal hygiene items (soap, deodorant, toothpaste/toothbrushes, etc.), non-perishable food, bottled water and clothing to their nearest stationhouse at any time.
Lastly, the Queens Borough President's Office is hosting a Haiti Relief donation drive through September 22nd. You may drop off personal hygiene items and non-perishable food at the Queens Borough Hall lobby security desk located at 120-55 Queens Boulevard in Kew Gardens.
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