June 14, 2024
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
My office seized an unlicensed mobile cannabis dispensary, known as "The Green Empress," on the corner of 43rd Street and Queens Boulevard in Sunnyside this week. 

The confiscated product from the truck was not only unlicensed and unregulated, it was heavily marketed toward children with names such as “Skittles“ and “Gummy Sharks” and packaging nearly identical to snacks popular with kids.

The vehicle’s owner has been charged with unlawful sale and unlawful possession of cannabis for allegedly operating the illegal business. 

Unlicensed marijuana sellers have become the subject of numerous community complaints because the unregulated product often targets our young people and has actually sickened customers. Such dispensaries also evade paying taxes that go toward public services and undercut legal vendors who prioritize safety and compliance.

My office will continue to crack down on illegal dispensaries that pose a serious threat to public health.

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

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney
Cases of Interest
  • An Alabama man was arraigned on charges of leaving the scene of a deadly December 2021 hit-and-run near the Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale that killed an elderly woman.
  • A subway attacker has pleaded guilty to attempted murder for the violent, unprovoked assault of a commuter in September 2022 at the Howard Beach/JFK station. He is expected to be sentenced to 22 years in prison.
  • A Hollis man was charged with weapon possession after a semi-automatic gun, more than 170 total rounds of ammunition, knives and body armor were found in his car following a traffic stop in East Elmhurst.
Illegal Scooters Takedown
My office partnered with the NYPD on a four-day operation to seize unregistered, uninsured and illegally parked scooters in the borough.

More than 100 scooters were removed as part of our efforts to enhance community safety.

Illegal scooters are an affront to law-abiding New Yorkers who take the time to register, insure and maintain their vehicles on our roadways.

A total of 515 scooters, two motorcycles and one dirt bike have been confiscated since the start of the joint operation in February and our enforcement efforts will continue.
Cold Case
If you have information regarding the death of John Jeff, who was killed in Jamaica three and a half years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.
Strength in Unity
The New York City Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, JRCRC-NY, the Queens Jewish Community Council, AJC New York and the Committee of 100 came together this week to hold an educational panel addressing the alarming increase in anti-Asian and antisemitic hate crimes.

The program raised awareness and fostered a community of inclusivity and understanding.

I was proud to be a special guest speaker and members of my Hate Crimes Bureau participated in an important panel discussion to address these critical issues.
The Federated Blocks of Laurelton
It was a pleasure to join the monthly meeting of the Federated Blocks of Laurelton to address community concerns.

The meeting featured a presentation by my Crime Strategies & Intelligence Bureau on the issue of illegal cannabis distribution and our efforts to ensure public safety.
Happy Father's Day!
As the nation celebrates Father's Day this Sunday, I want to take the opportunity to pay tribute to all the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have played a vital role in raising and shaping our children.

Their selfless love and support have made a significant impact on our lives. Let's celebrate Father's Day by acknowledging and thanking all the amazing dads and father figures in our lives.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, commemorated on June 15, is an annual event that aims to increase awareness about the various forms of elder abuse and the resources available to those at risk.

Elder abuse, especially financial exploitation, is a growing concern in our borough. Seniors are often targeted by fraudsters and scammers, but my office works tirelessly to combat this issue and protect our seniors. 

If you think that you or a loved one has been a victim of a crime, reach out to my office. We're here to help.