April 28, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I was joined this week by NYPD officials, members of the Flushing business community and elected leaders to announce the launch of the Flushing Merchants Business Improvement Program. More than 30 businesses have already signed up for the initiative, which discourages illegal and unwanted activity in and around downtown Flushing stores.  Merchants in the program can notify the 109th Precinct when an individual is committing a crime in their shop or is otherwise disrupting business. Responding officers can issue a trespass notice and warn the person that their continued presence or return to the location can result in their arrest. The initiative is modeled after the successful Jamaica Merchants Business Improvement Program launched two years ago. If you run a business in the 109th Precinct and are interested in participating, I encourage you to contact the Precinct Neighborhood Coordination Officers, at (718) 321-2264. Our store owners and shopkeepers have been greatly impacted by the lingering effects of the pandemic. My team and I will do everything we can to help them provide a safe space for their staff and patrons so they and their communities can thrive.  My top priority will always be keeping you and your loved ones safe. In Friendship, Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney

Selected Cases of Interest

Queens men sentenced for deadly Richmond Hill shooting Man sentenced to 22 years in prison in shooting death of deli worker Bronx man sentenced for shooting into MTA bus

Help Solve This Case

If you have information about the death of Corrections Officer John Jeff, contact NYPD Crimestoppers by calling 800-577-TIPS or through the online form. It is never too late for justice.

Solving a 45-year-old Cold Case

On National DNA Day, “Good Day New York” reported on a murder case my office was able to solve 45 years after the crime took place. Using forensic genetic genealogy, coupled with traditional investigative work, we brought a defendant to justice for the 1976 killing of World War I veteran George Clarence Seitz. My Cold Case Unit will continue to examine unsolved crimes to bring long-awaited justice to victims and their families.

Standing in Solidarity with Sexual Assault Survivors

April is recognized as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, during which we observe Denim Day, a campaign to raise awareness of harmful behaviors and attitudes surrounding sexual violence.   The campaign began in the late 1990s after the Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction based on the notion that the victim was wearing tight jeans and therefore must have helped remove them, implying consent. The next day, Italian women showed up in jeans to their workplaces to protest the ruling.   On Denim Day, we proudly wore our denim in solidarity with victims and survivors. My office will continue fighting against all forms of harassment and violence.

Hosting Members of the Clergy

Members of the clergy are vital partners in our collective mission to ensure public safety. It was a pleasure hosting a Clergy Safety Summit in Southeast Queens to discuss the work of my office. Those in attendance had the opportunity to voice issues of importance during a productive session on community-led prosecution. I thank everyone for their participation.

Commemorating the End of Ramadan

Last week marked the end of Ramadan for members of the Islamic faith. I had the honor of speaking to the congregation of the Jamaica Muslim Center and wish everyone observing a blessed Eid.  I am proud to not only support but protect the rich diversity of Queens County.