May 26, 2023
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we celebrate the unofficial start of summer this holiday weekend, we should not lose sight of the fact that Memorial Day is dedicated to paying homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Memorial Day is about honoring the real superheroes in our society --- the men and women who loved this country enough to fight and die for our freedoms.

I hosted a Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Elmhurst Park yesterday. During this solemn event, we placed a wreath to remember the fallen and honored four veterans of the Armed Services:

  • Specialist Frederick W. Gundel Jr., Army - Vietnam War
  • Master Sergeant Allan P. Wallace, Army - Vietnam War, Iraq War
  • Sergeant Major Jim Trainor, Army Reserves - Vietnam War, Iraq War, Afghanistan
  • Corporal and Assistant District Attorney Edan Benmelech, Marines - Operation Enduring Freedom

Thanks to their commitment to country, their beliefs in the rights and freedoms that come with being an American, and the courage to fight and lay down their lives, we are able to enjoy the fruits of the greatest democracy in the history of the world.

I have worked to ensure veterans in Queens have access to their benefits and services without needing to venture outside of this county. And we have a dedicated Veterans Treatment Court where hundreds of veterans have been referred. 

Please take some time this weekend to remember all those lost in service to our country.

In Friendship,

Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney
Selected Cases of Interest
  • Cold murder case ends with Brooklyn man's jury conviction
  • Groomer charged with animal cruelty after dog dies
Help Solve This Case
If you have information about the killing of Cleopatra Barlow, who was murdered 29 years ago, please contact NYPD Crimestoppers at 800-577-TIPS or through the online form.

It is never too late for justice.
Our Clergy Safety Summit
I recently hosted the latest installment of our Clergy Safety Summit Series at the Bosniak Islamic Cultural Center to discuss neighborhood concerns with the borough's Muslim clergy and talk about what we can do to make our communities safer.
A Special Honor for a Veteran
It was my pleasure to speak at the AMVETS Post 10-13 Testimonial Dinner in honor of Emory Perry, a U.S. Army veteran. I was happy to help celebrate this officer and gentleman, who was also a policeman, a civic leader and who continues to be a valued member of the Queens community.
Vaad Harabonim Visit
I had a great visit with the Vaad Harabonim of Queens during its "Meet Your Legislator" gathering. It was a pleasure talking with Rabbi Katz of Tomchei Shabbos, (below), Council Member Sandra Ung and many others in attendance. I want to thank Vaad Harabonim's President Rabbi Shmuel Marcus and organizer Avrohom Hecht for the invitation.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Please join us as we commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month. This will be our office's first program dedicated to recognizing Jewish traditions and history during this special month.

I am also delighted to announce that during this event, we will recognize our own Chief Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Naiburg for her outstanding work for the people of Queens County. Please join us, if you can.