August 21, 2026

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This week we announced that a 16-year-old was charged in connection with three incidents of chain snatching in June and July.

The defendant is alleged to have approached unsuspecting female pedestrians in broad daylight and grabbed jewelry from their necks. Two of the women suffered scratches and felt substantial pain after the robberies.

The teen was charged in two criminal complaints with robbery, grand larceny, assault and petit larceny.

Thank you to our NYPD partners for apprehending the defendant, who will now be held responsible for his alleged actions. My office is continuing to investigate several unrelated chain snatchings incidents throughout Queens.

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



In Friendship,

Melinda Katz

Queens District Attorney

Case of Interest

• A Flushing resident was convicted of murder and weapon possession for the shooting death of 29-year-old Julian Askew outside a Jamaica bodega in August 2022. The 42-year-old defendant fled the country to the United Kingdom but was apprehended at Kennedy Airport nine months later when he returned on his own to Queens.

Information Wanted

If you have any information about the murder of New York City Correction Officer John Jeff, who was shot and killed following an argument in St. Albans six years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.

Third Annual Jackson Heights Day

One of Queens County's most diverse neighborhoods came together to celebrate the people, businesses and organizations that make Jackson Heights a great place to live, work and play. It was wonderful to be part of this five-block festival that included entertainment, public art, cultural performances and family activities.

Events such as this help our communities in a positive way -- giving our youngsters great memories, enriching our seniors' lives and impacting the neighborhood with meaningful moments for all.

A Visit to Antioch Baptist Church

I had the pleasure of speaking recently to the congregation of the Antioch Baptist Church of Corona. After the service, the church hosted a school supply giveaway for students and members of my Community Partnerships team were present to distribute information about resources and services.

This kind of community outreach to area youth helps build our neighborhoods and shape future community leaders. I thank the church for its efforts and everyone involved in helping our youngsters succeed.

Ravenswood Houses Family Day

It was a joy to see so many people come out to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Ravenswood Houses during its annual Family Day gathering. Families, local leaders, community organizers and members of area businesses gathered to observe the housing complex's history and honor those who call the residences home.

It was a great day of celebration, connection and community engagement and my office was able to share valuable resources and connect with local residents. 

A Fond Farewell to Our Summer Interns

The dedication of our 71 college and law school Brave Justice summer interns enriched our work and helped foster their professional growth, which will undoubtedly serve them well as they transition back to school. We take pride in witnessing the evolution of our interns and wish them all the best in their academic pursuits.

You're Invited to Visit the QDA Mobile Office

Meeting Queens residents where they live and gather, the DA’s Mobile Office provides a perfect opportunity to get the answers you need. Our latest stop was at the Richmond Hill branch where QDA staff talked to residents and shared information about services and resources.

We'd like to invite you to stop by next week when the mobile office visits the Fresh Meadows branch on August 26.