May 3, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

My office obtained justice in two separate cases this week dealing with the pervasive issue of deed fraud. The first case involved an uncle who was ordered to pay restitution for stealing a share of a family home that was willed to his niece by his late brother. The second case saw a South Ozone Park couple pleading guilty to a deed fraud scheme that resulted in five properties being stolen from their rightful owners. As part of the plea, the couple agreed to pay restitution for homes that were sold to others, including one that was demolished unbeknownst to its owner. Deed fraud is a prevalent crime that robs homeowners of their single most valuable asset. Though it is a growing challenge throughout Queens, those who choose to victimize others for their own financial gain will be held to account in this borough. Two bureaus in my office – Frauds and Housing & Worker Protection – work every day to investigate and prosecute instances of deed fraud. As a result, we have successfully brought cases against bad actors seeking to scam their way into ownership of other people’s homes. Whenever we can, we use all tools at our disposal to make the victim whole by securing restitution. I urge anyone who owns property to register for alerts with the city's property registration site, ACRIS, as a way of protecting yourselves from fraudulent activity. My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Cases of Interest

A teen has been indicted for allegedly shoving a 68-year-old woman down the steps of a Briarwood church, leaving the seriously injured victim on the sidewalk and then stealing her purse and car.  An unlicensed driver was indicted on charges of manslaughter, drunk driving and other crimes for a deadly collision in February that killed his long-time girlfriend who was the mother of his child.

Cold Case

If you have information regarding the death of Leslie Balogh, shot and killed in Flushing 11 years ago, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS, or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Prom Clothing Drive

As prom season approaches, many students are excited to celebrate this special occasion with their friends and classmates. In an effort to help those in need, my office recently donated over 70 gently used prom dresses, suits, ties and accessories to graduating students. It was a pleasure partnering with NYPD Community Affairs on the giveaway, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to look and feel their best on their memorable night.

The Queens Civic Congress

The Queens Civic Congress hosted its biannual luncheon recently to discuss matters of interest to neighborhood associations in our borough.  I have always appreciated the vital role that the Queens Civic Congress plays in bringing our borough’s civic associations together to work collectively on shared issues.  It was a pleasure to attend and speak about the work of my office to keep people safe.

Mobile Office Hours

Members of my Community Partnerships Division recently held another successful mobile office event at the Queens Public Library in Pomonok. Join us at our next stop at the Queens Public Library in Maspeth on May 9, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Elder Fraud Presentation

Education is key to preventing frauds and scams. A member of my dedicated Elder Fraud Unit recently gave an informative presentation at India Home, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean seniors. To safeguard your assets, remember to always take the time to verify information being provided and never give cash to people you do not know. If you need help, contact the Elder Fraud unit at 718-286-6578 or ElderFraud@queensda.org.