January 8, 2021

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As an American and a long-time public servant, I continue to feel dismay and exasperation at the violent insurrection that took place at the US Capitol this week. I was heartened by the passionate remarks delivered by leaders on “both sides of the aisle” from the floors of the Senate and the House, calling for unity and acknowledging that the cornerstone of our democracy depends on the peaceful transition of power. I stand in solidarity with my fellow Americans in calling for a new, and better, chapter for this great nation. You can view my public statement regarding these events by clicking here. May you all continue to stay safe.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

In The Courts

Queens man charged with stealing identities of victims and going on car-buying spree Massachusetts resident charged with making terroristic threat; Allegedly planted a “hoax device” bomb on car in Queens mall Two business owners charged with $2.6 million fraud against New York State Insurance Fund for failing to pay worker's compensation insurance premiums Two men in separate cases indicted by Queens County grand jury for using internet to lure 14-year-olds for sex

Mourning an exemplary Assistant DA

All of us in the Queens DA's office mourn the sudden passing of Bradley Chain, who for 15 years served with distinction as an Assistant DA.   He was a smart, committed prosecutor who was giving of himself to his colleagues and the people of Queens County. He was a kind person and I will miss him. We send our deepest condolences to his family.

Community Board 9

I joined the monthly meeting of Community Board 9, which encompasses the neighborhoods of Richmond Hill, Woodhaven, Ozone Park and Kew Gardens, to discuss public safety concerns in the area. Board members have been especially concerned with a string of criminal activity and recent shootings taking place in the vicinity of the Umbrella Hotel, located on Queens Blvd in Kew Gardens. My office is actively working with the NYPD to find individuals responsible for the crimes committed on premises and I am hopeful that the City will move forward with shutting down this business for numerous outstanding violations.

Rockaway Beach Civic Association

It was a pleasure to appear as a guest speaker during the January meeting for the Rockaway Beach Civic Association. I had the opportunity to discuss community concerns in the area and inform attendees about available resources provided by this office.

Assistance for Fraud-Related Crime

Our Frauds Bureau provides assistance to Queens residents and businesses who are victims of a wide variety of complex financial crimes. The goal is to focus on catching criminals who prey on the vulnerable, line their pockets with tax revenue collected on behalf of the City and State and anyone else who uses complicated financial schemes to victimize the innocent. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a fraud-related crime, contact the Bureau at 718-286-6673. We're here to help.

Information Needed

As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding the death of Cleopatra Barlow, who was found killed in Rosedale almost 27 years ago. Help us bring her killer to justice, and provide her family with some semblance of peace. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

COVID-19 Update

Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that more vaccination sites will start to open across the City in an effort to expand the COVID-19 vaccine program. Over the next few days and weeks, pop-up sites at school buildings and other locations in New York City will join the list of current vaccination sites. The Mayor is also moving forward with a plan to open five "Mass Vax" sites, each capable of handling thousands of people, in the coming weeks. To check if you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, please click here.