January 15, 2021

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

January marks Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention month. Queens County is unfortunately a prime geographic location for traffickers to target and exploit those most at risk. Some of the most vulnerable include homeless and runaway youth, children in group homes or foster care, undocumented workers , LGBTQ+ community members, those suffering from substance abuse, and those facing gender, racial, social or economic inequality. Labor traffickers exploit workers with threats of injury or deportation, using forced labor, domestic work or servitude for little or no wages. Sex traffickers often use psychological or physical coercion, violence, threats, forced drug use or fear to compel adults and children to engage in acts of prostitution. Sex trafficking red flags: Older intimate partner Chronic runaway Unable to make decision without approval Not in possession of own ID Staying in hotels or in possession of hotel keys Labor trafficking red flags: ID documents held by employer or third party Employer holding onto salary for “safekeeping” Excessively long or unusual work hours Fearful of authorities  Evidence of physical abuse or malnourishment The QDA Human Trafficking Bureau, which I formed during the first six months of my administration, aggressively investigates and prosecutes sex and labor trafficking crimes. The Bureau collaborates with city, state agencies and non-governmental organizations to facilitate meaningful support services for trafficking survivors, regardless of their immigration status. If you or anyone you know may be a victim of labor trafficking or commercial exploitation - or to be connected to social, legal or immigration services - contact the Human Trafficking Bureau at 718-286-6548 or email HumanTrafficking@queensda.org.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

In The Courts

Umbrella Hotel night supervisor arrested for allowing criminal activity in and around establishment Retired police officer indicted by Queens grand jury on assault charges for firing weapon inside Howard Beach restaurant

Legal Perspective on Trafficking

Throughout the month of January, the Administration for Children’s Services is hosting the "NYC Child Sex Trafficking Conference: A 14 Day Virtual Event" to raise awareness of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Our Human Trafficking Bureau Chief participated in the "Law Enforcement and Legal Perspectives" panel to discuss our office's commitment to combatting these crimes while providing targeted services to survivors. Click here for additional information regarding the conference.

Fraud Prevention Workshop

Asian Americans for Equality (AAFE) held a workshop this week to educate the public, especially senior citizens in the Chinese Community, about scams and fraud prevention. I was able to join the workshop to speak about the resources this office provides for victims. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a fraud-related crime targeting senior citizens, contact our Elder Fraud Bureau at 718-286-6578. We're here to help.

Haitian Independence Day Celebration

Queens is home to the most diverse population of any other county in the world and it's always a pleasure celebrating the many vibrant communities that live in this borough.  To that end, I had the opportunity to participate in the 217th anniversary celebration of Haitian Independence, hosted by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. The event recognized the contributions that our Haitian American residents and business owners have made to the beauty and strength of this borough.

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

I am pleased to invite you to our annual event celebrating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The event will take place via Zoom on January 19th at 4:30pm. You may register by clicking here, or view the livestream on our Facebook page.

COVID-19 Update

As of January 11, 2021, New Yorkers in Phase 1a and segments of Phase 1b are eligible for the vaccines. All vaccinations are being distributed by appointment only for the following groups: Healthcare workers People age 65 and over First responders Teachers Public transit workers Grocery store workers Public safety workers Second dose appointments will be booked AT the site where you receive your first shot. It's important to remember that the vaccine requires two doses for effectiveness. To check if you're eligible for a vaccine at this time, please click here. In the meantime, please continue to wear your face covering, practice social distancing, and avoid large gatherings.