January 13, 2023
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I was in Court earlier this week for the resolution of a tragic case that resonated around the world. A Brooklyn man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for attacking 61-year-old GuiYing Ma as she swept a sidewalk in Corona on the day after Thanksgiving in 2021, fatally striking her twice in the head with a large rock.

After the sentencing Tuesday in Queens Supreme Court I said that "while today's sentence cannot make up for the heartbreaking and senseless loss of their loved one, I hope that it provides some measure of solace to the family of Ms. Ma. Twenty years will serve justice. It will also send a message to everyone else that violence is never the answer."

Ms. Ma's husband, Zhanxin Gao, told the court that he was grateful for the community of friends and lawmakers that helped him after his wife's attack, adding that his family is "still overwhelmed in grief."

As your district attorney, my top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe, whether in your homes or out in the community. As a lifelong resident of the borough, I am committed to making sure that Queens continues to be a special place to live and raise a family.


In Friendship,

Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney

Selected Cases of Interest
QDA Martin Luther King, Jr.
Last night, my Office held a very special event celebrating the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. co-sponsored with York College and St. Albans Congregational Church.

I hope that you will consider participating in an act of service to mark the national observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 16.
Help Solve This Case
If you have any information about the 1990 shooting of Ian Welch, let authorities know. It is not too late for justice to be done.
Save the Date: Lunar New Year 2023
We hope you can join us for this special program. Please register in advance here.