December 19, 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This week, I announced a major drug trafficking takedown near the Roosevelt Avenue corridor in Jackson Heights. Our long-term investigation -- in conjunction with our partners at the NYPD and Homeland Security Investigations New York -- uncovered an open-air drug market with hand-to-hand sales occurring at all hours of the day.

Sixteen defendants were charged in a 47-count indictment with conspiracy and variously charged with criminal sale of a controlled substance and other crimes. Three defendants were charged as major traffickers and, if convicted, face a potential sentence of 15 years to life in prison.

During this week's arrests, investigators seized significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, oxycodone, crystal meth, ecstasy, a 9 mm handgun, high-capacity magazines and more than $30,000 in cash.

My office is focused on the pressing issues on and near Roosevelt Avenue to make sure that nearby families and residents are protected. We are committed to dismantling drug rings and gang activity in Queens County, block by block and street by street.

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

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

• A Queens man was sentenced to 50 years to life in prison for gunning down his nephew at a family barbecue in 2023. The defendant was convicted at trial of murder, assault and weapon possession for the shooting, which was sparked over payment for food. Another relative was also injured.
• The defendant who shot and killed a tarot card reader in the doorway of her Ozone Park home in 2022, was sentenced to 23 years in prison. The Howard Beach resident pleaded guilty manslaughter in the first degree. The killer believed the victim had put a curse on him.
• A Jamaica man was charged in a seven-count indictment with sex trafficking, rape, strangulation and promoting prostitution for allegedly striking a female victim who did not make enough money for him.

Information Wanted

If you have any information about the shooting death of Andre Saunders, who was murdered in South Jamaica nearly 17 years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

Menorah Lighting Celebrations

This past weekend we marked the start of Hanukkah with heavy hearts following the tragic news of the mass shooting of Jews celebrating the holiday at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. My office is working relentlessly to combat hate crimes and teach tolerance. We remain vigilant in protecting our neighbors in the world's most diverse borough.

I participated in several menorah lighting ceremonies this week. We wanted to make sure people all over the world saw us celebrate, heard us celebrate and knew that we would never cower to violence and hate. Our hearts are with the victims and families impacted by the Bondi Beach tragedy.

QDA Office's Holiday Toy Drive and Giveaway

Members of my office donated more than 1,100 non-violent toys to help make the holiday season joyous for children. Bundles of action figures, balls, dolls and more were given to family shelters in Queens. Toys were also shared with Toys for Tots for distribution to local youngsters.

Last weekend, we also hosted a giveaway with Assembly Member Larinda Hooks and Toys for Tots at PS 220Q in Forest Hills. Children aged 4 to 8 years old were gifted a toy for the holiday.

These events help strengthen the bonds of our communities by supporting families during a time that can be challenging for many.

Don't Let Squatters Take Your Home