September 23, 2022

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

With the same commitment that my Office brings to protecting Queens residents from street crimes, we are dedicated to safeguarding the community from those that prey on others over the internet and illegally profit in digital currency.  Most recently, we have seen a steady increase in complaints of theft, fraud, and even romance scams involving cryptocurrency and have opened numerous investigations into these types of allegations. Despite a decrease in market value, crypto continues to be of great interest to bad actors looking to scheme consumers for their own financial benefit or to help fund other criminal activity. For this reason, I'd like to urge everyone to remain vigilant when delving into the world of virtual currency and blockchain technology. One of the most beneficial actions you can take to avoid falling victim is to be an informed consumer. Do not buy any cryptocurrencies unless you've researched all the relevant factors. You should also make sure to research the websites you use to buy cryptocurrencies for security and protection features for their customers. For additional tips, visit the Federal Trade Commission website. If you believe that you've been a victim of a cyber crime, you may reach out to my Cyber Crime Unit by calling 718.286.6673 or emailing CyberCrimes@queensda.org. Experienced prosecutors use all the digital and traditional tools at their disposal in order to delve into the virtual world we live in today and ensure justice for all victims of crime.

In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Select Cases of Interest

Unlicensed driver charged with criminally negligent homicide in deadly hit and run of 5-year-old boy Defendant indicted by grand jury for first-degree murder in the slaying of girlfriend and her family inside her Jamaica home Queens man charged with hate crime and other charges for destroying statue in front of Hindu temple Queens man sentenced to prison in vehicular homicide crash that killed mother and daughter

Rosh Hashanah

I had the pleasure of joining the MET Council and Tomchei Shabbos of Queens for their annual Rosh Hashanah food distribution, which serves hundreds of families across the borough. I'd like to extend my warmest greetings to everyone celebrating the Jewish high holidays next week. May your new year celebration be happy, safe, and sweet. L'Shanah Tovah!

Crime Strategies Discussion

During a recent joint meeting of my Community Advisory Councils, I discussed the multi-faceted strategies we utilize to help hold drivers of crime accountable while ensuring the safety of Queens residents. Shanon LaCorte, Director of the Crime Strategies and Intelligence Unit I created, spoke to the Council members about our current efforts to stop the proliferation of deadly weapons in our Borough. Using traditional investigative techniques coupled with accurate intelligence gathering, we will continue a relentless pursuit of those who think they can get away with harming our community.

Information Wanted

As part of our regular call for help, we are asking for any information regarding the 2002 murder of Romeo Acuna, found killed inside his home in Jackson Heights. Help us bring justice on behalf of the victim and his loved ones. If you have any details to report, I urge you to contact NYPD Crimestoppers. All tips are confidential and can be submitted anonymously!

Elder Scams Prevention

Awareness and education remains one of the most effective ways to prevent fraudsters and scammers from effectively targeting our senior citizens. That is why my Frauds Bureau routinely meets with community-based organization and speaks to members of the public about preventative methods and how to best report a crime. I'd like to thank the Queens Community House and the Kew Gardens Community Center for allowing us to host a workshop for their seniors this week. If you ever need help because you believe you've been a victim, email Frauds@queensda.org or call 718.286.6673. We're here to help.

190 Years of Service

It was an honor to join the leadership of Elmhurst Hospital to celebrate 190 years of exceptional service to Queens communities. Our frontline heroes deserve the highest form of regard for ensuring the well-being of generations of local residents despite countless challenges. I wish them continued success in providing quality care to the people of this great Borough.

Gun Buyback

As a final reminder, tomorrow, Saturday, September 24th, join us at the Calvary Assembly of God Church for our gun buyback event. If you surrender an operable firearm, you will receive a $200 bank card and an iPad (while supplies last). If you turn in two or more operable firearms, you will receive an additional $250 Food Bazaar Gift Card. No questions asked!