July 28, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

My office is committed to keeping guns off our streets and holding drivers of crime accountable. Over the past six months, we have announced the results of three separate long-term investigations into gang activity, brutal gun violence and narcotics trafficking in our borough. As a result, 55 illegal weapons were recovered, more than $1 million in illicit narcotics seized, and 56 alleged gang members were charged, including in connection with fatal incidents and shootouts on busy streets during broad daylight. Our efforts are making a difference. Since the start of the year, we have seen a remarkable 43% decline in homicides and a 32.5% drop in shooting incidents from the same time last year, larger declines than seen in the city as a whole. The success in reducing violent crime in Queens is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my team and the NYPD. We will continue to work collaboratively to ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe and secure, and that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable for their actions. My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Highlighted Cases of Interest

Boyfriend of woman killed and stuffed in car trunk pleads guilty; expected to be sentenced to 22 years in prison Defendant pleads guilty to manslaughter in Rufus King Park shooting death; expected to be sentenced to 19 years in prison

The Cold Case Unit

If you have information regarding the death of Demika Moore, who was found killed 13 years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Queens Family Justice Center Presentation

Our Domestic Violence Bureau works closely with the Queens Family Justice Center to hold abusers accountable and provide critical services to survivors. Bureau Chief Mary Kate Quinn and Center Director Susan Jacob recently spoke to our law interns about the importance of this partnership in keeping vulnerable residents safe.

Egyptian Day Celebration

My office is proud to support and celebrate the rich culture of Queens. Our Community Partnerships team last week took part in the vibrant Egyptian Day celebration in Astoria honoring the incredible contributions of Egyptian Americans in this borough and beyond.

Mini United Nations Festival

More than 10 countries were represented during the Mini United Nations Food and Music Festival at Queensborough Park hosted by the GPK Foundation. The event provided a great opportunity for different cultures to come together in unity.

Beware of Family Emergency Scams

Fraudsters will stoop to any level to scam you out of your hard-earned money, even pretending to be a loved one in trouble. The caller may not only claim to be a child or grandchild in need of help but can even sound like them through the use of artificial intelligence. To avoid becoming a victim, don't feel pressured into making an immediate decision. Call the person who supposedly contacted you and verify the story. Use a phone number you know is theirs. If you can’t reach your loved one, try to get in touch with them through another family member or their friends.  If you need help, contact frauds@queensda.org or 718-286-6673.