STATEMENTS ON ANTISEMITIC VANDALISM IN FOREST HILLS/REGO PARK:
This morning, May 5, New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin joined Council Member Lynn Schulman and Council Member Phil Wong at Congregation Machane Chodosh in Forest Hills which was one of multiple sites vandalized with antisemitic graffiti, including swastikas. The three issued the following joint statement during their visit:
“Multiple synagogues and private homes in Queens were vandalized overnight with swastikas and other antisemitic graffiti. We are currently at one of the sites, Congregation Machane Chodosh in Forest Hills. When rabbis and congregants arrived to pray this morning, they expected to be met with their usual loving community. When a family woke up, they were prepared to begin an otherwise normal week. Instead, they were met with terrifying signals of hatred and threats of violence.
“We are in contact with the NYPD, which is investigating and searching for at least four individuals responsible for the terrible incidents. The graffiti will be removed once the investigation is complete.
“With antisemitism on the rise here and across the globe, we will always stand up for our Jewish community and fight back against hate.”
Also, Council Member Phil Wong issued the following statement after a reported hate crime targeting the Rego Park Jewish Center, with NYPD reports indicating at least four additional locations in the area were marked with similar hate graffiti: “I’ve seen the images and what occurred is absolutely unacceptable. There is no place for this kind of hatred in our community. I am in contact with the 112 Precinct and expect swift action. Someone must be held accountable.”
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) also issued a statement condemning the antisemitic graffiti found on synagogues, private homes and a vehicle in Forest Hills and Rego Park: “Once again, hate has reared its ugly head in our community, and I am sickened by this vile act of antisemitism. I’ve said it many times and I will say it again; hate has no place in Queens or anywhere else in our society. This despicable and disgusting graffiti is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our borough. As antisemitism continues to rise, we must continue doing everything possible to counter antisemitism and hate whenever and wherever it occurs, and in any form that it takes. I thank the 112th Precinct for its response and I will continue monitoring the situation as the investigation proceeds.”
SECOND ARREST MADE IN 69TH STREET CAR TAKEOVER CASE:
Council Member Phil Wong (D-Queens) issued the following statement after the NYPD announced the arrest of Winston Pat, a second suspect connected to the 69th Street and Eliot Avenue car takeover:
“The arrest of a second suspect tied to the 69th Street and Eliot Avenue car takeover is another step toward accountability, but the work is far from over. I want to thank the detectives at the 104th Precinct for continuing to track down those responsible. These reckless events put lives at risk, and my message remains the same: if you take part in this chaos, you will be found and you will be held accountable.”
ADDABBO INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO COMBAT DANGEROUS STREET TAKEOVERS:
The most recent illegal street takeover in Queens and growing concerns over dangerous criminal activity, which impact public safety and negatively affect quality of life, reinforce the need for two bills introduced by NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., designed to protect communities and hold reckless offenders accountable.
Addabbo’s bills, S.10059A seeks to significantly increase penalties for illegal street takeovers, sideshows, and dangerous motor vehicle speed contests and S.10104 would expand judicial discretion in certain related bail determinations. “Public safety must always come first,” said Addabbo. “My bill would crack down on the growing menace of illegal street takeovers and sideshows by creating tougher criminal penalties, authorizing vehicle seizure and potential forfeiture, expanding the definitions of participation and spectator involvement.”
Illegal street takeovers have become increasingly common across New York, such as the incident on April 18th in Middle Village on Eliot Avenue. They often draw large crowds, block intersections, damage property, and put innocent motorists, pedestrians, and first responders at serious risk.
“There is nothing harmless about terrorizing neighborhoods, endangering innocent lives, and undermining respect for the law,” stated Addabbo. “When individuals are apprehended after participating in dangerous street takeovers that place families, pedestrians, and first responders at risk, only to be released without bail, it sends the wrong message to our communities and to those who engage in this reckless behavior. Communities deserve better, which is why individuals who turn our streets into chaos must face appropriate consequences, and judges must have the ability to protect the public,” Addabbo concluded.
UNG INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS LOUD CAR MEETUPS:
Deputy Leader Sandra Ung recently introduced legislation aimed at addressing the growing problem of late-night car meetups. These meetups often feature vehicles outfitted with oversized speakers blasting music at disruptive volumes in neighborhoods across New York City. These gatherings, which have become increasingly common in and around Deputy Leader Ung’s district in locations like Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and the World’s Fair Marina, have created a serious quality-of-life issue for residents, particularly during the warmer months of the year.
“Far too many of my constituents are being kept up at night by these gatherings, where vehicles are intentionally modified to project music at extreme volumes,” said Deputy Leader Ung. “This is not about people enjoying music. It’s about excessive, unreasonable noise that disrupts entire communities and deprives residents of peace in their own homes.”
WONG, KRISHNAN DEMAND ACTION ON VIOLENT NIGHTCLUB:
Council Members Phil Wong (D-Queens) and Shekar Krishnan (D-Queens) have sent a joint letter to the New York State Liquor Authority and the New York City Sheriff’s Office calling for immediate enforcement action against Amadeus Nightclub in Elmhurst following a series of violent incidents, including a recent shooting that left four individuals injured.
The letter details a sustained pattern of violence and disorder at the location, including multiple shootings, a prior homicide, robbery, and dozens of emergency calls and complaints over the past several years. It also highlights repeated reports from residents and businesses of drug activity, gang-related disputes, and turf conflicts occurring in and around the premises.
“Given the frequency and severity of incidents tied to this location, the current conditions are clearly untenable,” the Council Members wrote. “At a minimum, this establishment warrants immediate enforcement action, including suspension of its liquor license and coordinated inspection activity across relevant agencies.”
According to the letter, the location has generated 96 calls to 911, 43 complaints to 311, and 40 complaint reports, including serious violent crimes. Despite this, enforcement outcomes have been limited, raising concerns about ongoing risks to public safety.
The Council Members are calling for a coordinated, multi-agency review involving the New York City Police Department and other relevant agencies, and are urging the State Liquor Authority to pursue suspension and potential revocation of the establishment’s liquor license if violations are confirmed.
Local officials and community leaders have repeatedly raised concerns about the site, which has been flagged by Queens Community Board 4 as having a longstanding history of issues.
Wong and Krishnan stressed that immediate action is necessary to restore safety and quality of life for surrounding residents.
ADDABBO CELEBRATES RESORTS WORLD CASINO’S FULL LICENSE:
Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Chairman of the New York State Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering: “I have witnessed the Resorts World Casino evolve from a concept to creation, from groundbreaking in 2010 to ribbon cutting in 2011. I have stood with Resorts World through every step of the process, because I believed in the vision and believed in their promise to the community and Queens, given their 15-year record of delivering. Today that promise is further fulfilled. With the start of Resorts World’s full casino license the jobs are here, the investment is here, the problem gambling awareness is here and the net positive impact on our community starts with the first hand dealt and the first roll of the dice. This is just the beginning of transforming the Resorts World Casino site into a destination to be enjoyed by all for generations to come. I look forward with enthusiasm to see how this jewel in Ozone Park, Queens, will continue to sparkle for the community, the city and state.”
NEW PLAYGROUND FOR PS 69:
Council Member Shekar Krishnan said this week: “We broke ground at P.S. 69 for their new playground! With our $800,000 investment in the renovation, our partnership with Trust for Public Land, and the input and advocacy from P.S. 69 students, we were able to envision a play yard that works for our community. It was designed through a participatory process with students, educators, families, and community members. The new schoolyard will feature nature-based play elements, shaded seating, improved drainage, and green infrastructure that helps manage stormwater and reduce extreme heat. It will be colorful and art-forward– with the students of P.S. 69, Groundswell, and WOAH designing and painting a mural on the school wall. Jackson Heights families deserve safe, beautiful places where children can play, learn, and thrive. This project will serve hundreds of students every day and thousands of neighbors after school hours—bringing much-needed open space to the community with the least amount of green and public space in our city. This is the type of work I love doing– it brings together our city agencies and community partners to deliver for our community and make a real lasting impact on our neighborhood.”
MEEKS STATEMENT FOLLOWING KING CHARLES’ ADDRESS TO CONGRESS:
Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued a statement following His Majesty King Charles III’s Joint Address to Congress:
“It was a great honor to serve on the escort committee for His Majesty King Charles III’s joint address to Congress. I commend the King’s impassioned call for a renewed commitment to NATO, sustained support for Ukraine, and the deepening of the shared history and special relationship that binds our nations. I hope it serves as a reminder that the United States is better off when we stand alongside friends, and that going it alone or pushing partners away only undermines the interests of the American people we represent.”
WONG CALLS FOR DELAY OF DOE’S AI PLAYBOOK:
Council Member Phil Wong (D-Queens) has sent a letter to Chancellor Kamar Samuels calling for a delay in the release and implementation of the New York City Public Schools Artificial Intelligence (AI) Playbook, citing concerns over limited public input and the potential impact on students’ learning and development.
In his letter, Wong emphasized that while AI will play an important role in the future, the current timeline does not allow for sufficient engagement with parents, educators, and students, particularly with the feedback period set to close on May 8th. He is urging the DOE to expand outreach through a series of in-person and virtual meetings across the five boroughs to ensure families have a meaningful voice in shaping how AI is used in classrooms.
Wong also pointed to broader concerns about increased screen time in schools, especially following the recent implementation of a bell to bell cell phone ban. He noted early signs from other school systems, like Houston, showing improved student focus and engagement, and cautioned against policies that could reverse that progress. Wong added that the focus should be on decreasing screen time overall, including the use of iPads and laptops, and getting students back to reading physical books and even newspapers.
“AI has a place in education, but we cannot rush into this without fully understanding the impact on our kids,” said Wong. “If students start relying on AI to do the thinking for them, we risk weakening core skills like writing, research, and critical thinking. We need more input from parents and a more thoughtful approach before moving forward.” Wong’s letter calls on the DOE to pause the rollout of the Playbook for the 2026 to 2027 school year, extend the feedback period, and prioritize direct engagement with families and educators before finalizing any long-term AI policy.
AJKUMAR STATEMENT ON FIRE:
Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar: “In the early hours of this morning, our community was shaken to its core by a senseless act of violence and destruction in South Ozone Park: a domestic dispute that escalated into a 5-alarm fire, leaving a family’s home reduced to rubble and at least 16 of our neighbors displaced. In this heartbreaking moment, we witnessed both horror and heroism, as the brave members of the FDNY and NYPD rushed into the flames and debris to save lives, even when they sustained injuries themselves.
“As we move forward on the long road to recovery, I want to assure every person affected that they are not alone. My office is here to support you, and we will ensure that those who have lost their homes will receive the help they need. Together, we will rebuild and emerge stronger than ever. If you or a loved one has been affected and need assistance, please contact my office at 718-805-0950, email us at rajkumarj@nyassembly.gov, or text/call us at 347-585-0327.”
UPCOMING EVENTS IN DISTRICT 19:
Council Member Vickie Paladino announced the following upcoming events:
In partnership with NYCDOT – Free Bike Helmet Giveaway – Saturday, May 9th, 11:30AM-2:30PM – Crocheron Park in Bayside.
Street Co-Naming for Sgt. USAAC Michael J. Murphy Way – Saturday, May 9th, 10AM – 170th St. & Crocheron Ave.
20th Annual Big Hearts Walk for St. Mary’s Kids – Sunday, May 17th, 10AM (9AM check-in) – Crocheron Park in Bayside.
In-office resource center with Dept. of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) – Tuesday, May 26th at District 19 Office, 10AM-4PM.
RWDSU BACKS GRACE MENG FOR CONGRESS:
Representative Grace Meng received the endorsement of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (“RWDSU”). The union represents New York City’s retail, food processing, and service sector workers, many of whom are heavily concentrated in Queens at the heart of New York’s 6th Congressional District.
Founded in 1937, RWDSU has long championed workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions, and made national headlines in 2021 when it led the high-profile unionization drive at an Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama. RWDSU brings the strength of a broad labor coalition to its advocacy for working families in New York and beyond.
The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) issued the following statement on the endorsement:
“Grace Meng has been a fierce and reliable ally for working people throughout her time in Congress. From fighting for fair wages to standing up for immigrant workers who power our retail and food industries, she knows how the labor fights happening on shop floors and loading docks matter just as much as anything happening on Wall Street. RWDSU is proud to endorse her reelection and we look forward to continuing to work together to deliver for the hardworking men and women of Queens and beyond.”
BRAUNSTEIN ANNOUNCES MOTHER’S DAY ESSAY & POETRY CONTEST:
Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein (D-Bayside) is announcing the return of his annual Mother’s Day Essay and Poetry Contest, open to students in grades 2-5 who live or go to school in Assembly District 26.
Submissions can be any length and should have a Mother’s Day theme, such as a favorite experience, or an essay about why their mother is so special to them. The deadline to enter the contest is Monday, May 11, 2026.
“As we prepare to honor and celebrate mothers this Mother’s Day, I invite Northeast Queens students to submit an entry to my annual Essay and Poetry Contest,” said Assemblyman Edward Braunstein. “Students are invited to showcase their creativity and writing skills and compete to win a district-wide prize. I look forward to reading all the entries this spring.”
District-wide prizes will be awarded in each grade and New York State Assembly Certificates of Merit will be awarded to all participating students. If a student is interested in participating, they are asked to please print their full name, grade and school information on their entry and submit the essay or poem to Assemblyman Braunstein’s office at 213-33 39th Avenue, Suite 238, Bayside, NY 11361. Essays and poems can also be submitted by email to braunsteine@nyassembly.gov, or fax to 718-357-5947.
If entrants have any questions, they can contact Assemblyman Braunstein’s office at 718-357-3588.
ADDABBO LEADS COMMUNITY SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING:
Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. hosted a community self-defense training on April 23, 2026, on the Center Green at the Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale in collaboration with Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts of Glendale. To commemorate Sexual Assault Awareness Month, this event called on residents to develop real-life self-defense techniques and learn about sexual violence prevention. About 40 people of all ages participated in a 45-minute mixed martial arts training session where attendees gained confidence while attaining defense skills. Around 10 instructors and assistants filtered through the crowd to maintain good technique and safety during the class. Those who completed the class were given a coupon for a free week of classes at Tiger Schulmann’s Glendale, sponsored by Sensei Chris Iavarone, the owner and manager who partnered on this event for the second year in a row.
Representatives from Safe Horizon, the largest victim service agency in the country, and members of the NYPD Special Victims Division, which investigates sex crimes, were on hand to provide additional resources and support to promote safety and awareness. “We need to empower survivors, community members,” Addabbo said. “We want people to feel safer and stronger. Access to self-defense skills and helpful information can reduce violence and help prevent harm. Thank you to our partners and sponsors who made this event a success, including Tiger Schulmann’s Glendale for providing free classes for residents to continue learning and develop skills for life.”
Senator Addabbo would like to thank the event’s partners Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. (the new owners of the Shops at Atlas Park), Tiger Schulmann’s of Glendale, NYPD Special Victims Department Liaison Unit, and Safe Horizon. Those seeking help, resources or services, can contact Safe Horizon’s Rape and Sexual Assault Hotline at 212-227-3000.
KRISHNAN, SCHULMAN, AND DINOWITZ PASS BILLS TO COMBAT VACCINE MISINFORMATION:
Today, the New York City Council passed a comprehensive package of legislation to combat vaccine misinformation and expand access to life-saving immunizations, reinforcing the City’s commitment to public health. The Package passed in the Council with a veto proof majority.
Vaccination rates have declined in recent years amid the spread of misinformation, contributing to the reemergence of preventable diseases nationwide. At the same time, barriers to access – including cost, availability, and lack of clear information – continue to prevent New Yorkers from receiving recommended immunizations. In response, the Council introduced a set of bills aimed at strengthening public health education, enhancing outreach to families, and expanding the network of providers authorized to administer vaccines.
Ahead of the vote, Chair of the Health Committee Lynn Schulman, Council Member Shekar Krishnan, and Council Member Eric Dinowitz were joined by Speaker Julie Menin and advocates from Community Health Network and Public Health Solutions emphasized the importance of strengthening our education and accessibility to vaccinations amid attacks from the federal level on the science behind vaccinations and a gutting of the institutions that make them accessible to New Yorkers.
The Package of bills includes:
Introduction 260-A, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, in collaboration with the Department of Education (DOE), to develop informational materials about vaccines. DOE would also be required to distribute the materials to parents of all New York City public school students, including those enrolled in early childhood programs such as 3-K and Pre-K. At minimum, these materials must include general information on how vaccines work, their public health benefits, their safety, and where to access vaccines required for school attendance.
Introduction 693-A, sponsored by Council Member Eric Dinowitz, would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), in collaboration with relevant agencies, to develop and implement a plan by no later than January 1, 2027, to educate the public regarding the benefits and importance of childhood and adolescent vaccinations for individuals 18 years old or younger. In developing the plan, DOHMH would be required to consider recommendations adopted by major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Resolution 273, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.4548/A.3892 and S.6744A/A.3894A, state legislation authorizing dentists to administer influenza vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines, human papillomavirus vaccines, or a vaccine related to a public health emergency.
Resolution 425, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and for the Governor to sign, S.8334A/A.8824A, S.8853/A.9648, and S.8496C/A.9060C, state legislation requiring vaccines to be regulated, recommended, administered, and insured based on the recommendations of various nationally and internationally recognized healthcare organizations alongside the federal advisory committee on immunization practices
A Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign S.5852/A.3839, requiring insurance to reimburse the total direct and indirect practice expenses associated with vaccinations
“At a time when the misinformation and disinformation about vaccines coming from the federal government is literally putting lives in danger, it’s incumbent on the City Council to take the lead in setting the record straight,” said Speaker Julie Menin. “This package of proposed legislation will give parents accurate, trusted information about vaccines and their role in protecting public health, while expanding access so more New York families can benefit. When Washington steps back, New York steps up.”
“While the federal government is actively undermining trust in vaccines, New York City is fighting back with facts,” said Chair of the New York City Council’s Committee on Health Lynn Schulman. “Our package of legislation takes direct aim at the forces driving down vaccination rates — misinformation, lack of access, and financial barriers facing the doctors who care for our kids. Everyone in New York City deserves the protection that vaccines provide, and we are going to make sure they get it.”
“The federal government is dismantling our health care, from making it expensive to see your doctors, gutting public health institutions, and spreading misinformation on vaccines. The New York City Council is doing the work that Donald Trump refuses to do— combatting vaccine misinformation and making necessary vaccinations more accessible with a package of legislation. I’m proud that we are passing my legislation, Intro 260, to distribute materials on vaccinations and where to get them, so New York City families have reliable information on vaccinating their children,” said Council Member Shekar Krishnan, District 25.
GILLIBRAND INTRODUCES BILL TO STOP POLITICIANS FROM PROFITING OFF INSIDER INFORMATION:
U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) today introduced the Prediction Market Act of 2026, landmark bipartisan legislation that establishes regulatory clarity, stops Washington politicians from using non-public information to enrich themselves, and protects consumers from fraud in the rapidly growing prediction market sector.
Recent polling by Navigator shows that a majority of Americans support banning officials with insider information from trading event contracts tied to government actions — including war, legislation, and other consequential decisions. Senator Gillibrand’s regulatory framework puts regular Americans first by banning members of Congress, the president and vice president, and senior executive branch officials from trading event contracts, prohibiting deceptive marketing, and mandating strict safeguards for retail investors.
“Elected officials should be working for the people they represent — not lining their own pockets with insider information. Americans deserve financial markets that are fair, transparent, and not tilted in favor of those with privileged access,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill puts strong guardrails in place to protect consumers, prevent insider trading, and hold prediction market platforms to standards of integrity.”
Prediction markets have expanded dramatically in recent years, with millions of Americans trading event contracts tied to real-world outcomes — economic indicators, weather, elections, and cultural events. Yet the industry has operated with limited regulatory clarity, leaving the door open to insider trading, manipulation, and retail investor harm. The Prediction Market Act of 2026 addresses these risks head-on.
Key provisions of the Prediction Market Act of 2026 include:
Banning Political Insider Trading: Members of Congress, the president, the vice president, and senior executive branch officials are prohibited from trading on prediction markets. This prevents politicians with access to sensitive government information from unfairly profiting at the expense of everyday Americans.
Establishing Clear Insider Trading Standards: The bill directs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to prohibit trading on material nonpublic information and to define enforceable insider trading standards tailored specifically to prediction markets.
Protecting Customer Funds: Firms must meet strict financial protection standards, including full segregation of customer funds and a ban on commingling, ensuring that customer assets are fully protected at all times.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Consumers: The bill requires self-exclusion programs and mandatory age verification to protect vulnerable consumers from predatory practices.
Strengthening Illicit Finance Safeguards: Platforms must comply with Bank Secrecy Act–level requirements, including customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting.
Creating an Office of the Retail Advocate: A new, independent office within the CFTC will champion everyday investors, assist consumers with disputes, and hold bad actors accountable.
Creating an Advisory Council on Consumer Protection: A new Advisory Council on Consumer Protection within the CFTC brings together regulators, law enforcement, consumer advocates, and market participants to strengthen oversight of retail activity in prediction markets.
Preserving State Consumer Protections: The bill maintains robust federal oversight while preserving state authority to enforce consumer protection laws, ensuring comprehensive, layered supervision.
*** CRIME BLOTTER **
DELIVERY DRIVER CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED ROBBERY:
Defendant Rammed Two Cars, Assaulted Four Men; Faces Up to Seven Years in Prison, if Convicted
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Dauri Batita has been charged with attempted robbery, assault and other crimes for ramming into a carload of women with his cargo van, striking another vehicle and assaulting four men, two of whom he attempted to rob. Batita was wearing a blue vest bearing the Amazon logo and driving a van filled with Amazon packages.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said: “As alleged, this defendant went on a violent rampage by ramming his delivery van into multiple vehicles and assaulting four people, three of whom are seniors. This defendant’s actions turned a peaceful neighborhood near Forest Park into a crime scene that spanned multiple city blocks. I thank our NYPD partners for quickly apprehending the defendant before he could cause more harm.”
Batita, 32, of Brooklyn, who is also known as Dauri Batista, was arraigned today on a criminal complaint charging him with three counts of attempted robbery in the second degree, nine counts of assault in the second degree, reckless endangerment in the first degree, three counts of attempted assault in the second degree, criminal mischief in the third degree, four counts of menacing in the second degree, and leaving the scene of an incident without reporting personal injury and leaving the scene of an incident without reporting property damage. Queens Criminal Court Judge Thomas Wright-Fernandez remanded the defendant and ordered him to return to court on May 19. He faces up to seven years in prison, if convicted.
District Attorney Katz said that, according to the charges, on April 26, at approximately 4:08 p.m., Batita approached a 2015 Nissan at the intersection of Park Lane South and Forest Parkway outside Forest Park in Woodhaven. As the 61-year-old driver and her three passengers looked on, the defendant, wearing a blue delivery vest, hit the vehicle’s windshield with an unknown object and cracked the glass.
The four women in the car waited near the intersection of Forest Parkway and 85th Avenue for police to arrive. Batita entered a 2024 white Ram van and drove head on into the Nissan. Batita backed up and drove into the front of the Nissan again. Batita backed up again and the Nissan drove off. Batita followed the Nissan at a high rate of speed. Three of the women in the car experienced substantial neck, back and knee pain.
Shortly thereafter, Batita was driving near the intersection of 87th Street and 85th Road in Woodhaven and was allegedly going the wrong way on a one-way street. The defendant exited the Ram and approached a 66-year-old man and punched him several times, loosening his teeth and causing bleeding and pain. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment. At the same intersection, Batita allegedly attacked a second victim, a 33-year-old man whom he approached then punched in the face several times while he pulled at his necklace. Batita then attacked a 72-year-old male bystander and allegedly punched him in the head, causing the victim to fall to the ground and sustain abrasions to his arm.
The defendant then entered the Ram and drove the wrong way on a one-way street and into the front end of a 2023 Nissan. The defendant then allegedly opened the front passenger door and assaulted the 75-year-old driver, punching him in the face and threatening to steal his car. The victim’s son stopped the assault and held Batita at the location until police arrived. The driver was taken to the hospital for treatment.
QUEENS MAN SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS TO LIFE IN PRISON FOR DRIVE-BY MURDER:
Lovepreet Singh, Partner Targeted Victim Outside His Home; Co-defendant Sentenced to 22 Years in November
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Lovepreet Singh was sentenced to 17 years to life in prison for the murder of 31-year-old Satnam Singh during a drive-by shooting in South Ozone Park in June 2022. Singh and his co-defendant carried out a targeted hit in broad daylight on the victim, who was killed while sitting in a car parked near his home.
District Attorney Katz said: “Four years ago, Satnam Singh’s life was taken because two individuals made a deliberate, calculated choice to carry out an act of gun violence. With this prison sentence of 17 years to life for one defendant and a prior 22-year prison term for another, we have achieved justice for the victim of this senseless shooting. We hope the sentencing brings a measure of closure to the victim’s loved ones as we continue to do all we can to remove illegal firearms from our streets and prevent more families from experiencing this kind of heartbreak.”
Singh, 30, of Jamaica, was convicted by a jury in January of murder in the second degree and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. He was sentenced yesterday by Supreme Court Justice Michael Aloise to 17 years to life. Singh’s co-defendant, Rajtirath Bassi, 23, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree on August 6, 2025, and was sentenced to 22 years in prison in November.
DA Katz said that, according to the charges and trial testimony, on June 25, 2022, at approximately 3:45 p.m., Singh drove past 31-year-old Satnam Singh in a gray Nissan Sentra with tinted windows, a black spoiler feature and a crooked rear license plate. The victim was sitting in the driver’s seat of a Jeep Wrangler parked near his residence on the corner of 129th Street and Sutter Avenue in South Ozone Park. As the Sentra slowed down and stopped before it passed the Jeep, a witness heard several loud bangs and saw an arm extended from the front passenger side of the gray car holding a gun. The victim was found in the Jeep with multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head. He died at a local hospital later that day. Police recovered several shell casings at the scene and extensive video evidence revealed the identities of the Sentra’s occupants. Approximately 30 minutes prior to the shooting, the Sentra parked at the corner of 101st Ave and 114th Street and Singh got out of the driver’s seat while Bassi exited the front passenger seat. The men went into a passport and visa service center where Singh attempted to get a passport. After the shooting Singh and Bassi went to the wedding of friends in New Jersey. Singh claimed that he hardly knew Bassi, but evidence presented at trial showed the pair had exchanged 146 phone calls in the three months surrounding the shooting.
Singh was apprehended in Pennsylvania on September 7, 2022.
FORMER CORRECTION OFFICER CHARGED WITH FILING PHONY DOCUMENTATION:
Defendant Allegedly Made 50 False Claims of Medical Treatment Including from Deceased Physician
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and New York City Department of Investigation Commissioner Nadia Shihata announced that James Wilson was arraigned on charges of grand larceny and offering a false instrument for filing for submitting documentation falsely claiming that he had been treated by healthcare professionals in order to justify being out on sick leave from his position as a correction officer at Rikers Island. The documentation allegedly included a note from a doctor who had died four months before the purported treatment.
District Attorney Katz said: “As alleged, this defendant filed dozens of fake doctor’s notes to remain on paid sick leave from his job with the Department of Correction. James Wilson went as far as submitting a note from a doctor who died the year before the defendant allegedly received treatment. I thank our partners at the New York City Department of Investigation and the Department of Correction for their assistance on this case.”
Department of Investigation Commissioner Nadia Shihata said: “As charged, this former Correction Officer stole thousands of dollars in sick leave he was not entitled to receive by submitting 50 falsified medical notes — including documents purportedly issued by a deceased physician. This conduct violates Department of Correction policy and the law—compounding a staffing crisis faced by DOC in 2022. I thank the Queens District Attorney’s Office for its partnership on this investigation and DOC for referring this matter to DOI.”
Department of Correction Commissioner Stanley Richards said: “Correction officers work long hours at a difficult job to ensure that their colleagues and the people in the Department’s care are safe. Any kind of fraud or dishonesty represents a serious betrayal and anyone who engages in such conduct will be held accountable. I commend our Special Investigations Unit for their hard work and collaboration in this case.”
Wilson, 46, of Staten Island, was arraigned today on charges of grand larceny in the third degree, grand larceny in the fourth degree and 50 counts of offering a false instrument for filing in the second degree. Queens Criminal Court Judge Thomas Wright-Fernandez ordered Wilson to return to court July 13. If convicted, Wilson faces a potential maximum of 2 1/3 to seven years in prison.
District Attorney Katz said that, according to the charges and investigation, Wilson was employed as a correction officer assigned to Rikers Island from December 19, 2016, to May 3, 2024, and was out on sick leave for periods of time from January 2, 2022, to November 19, 2022.
Under city regulations, uniformed correction officers who report sick for nine days or more during a calendar year may not leave their homes except under certain circumstances, such as a visit to a physician or hospital. Those who do leave their residences are required to submit documentation about the trip to the Department of Correction’s Health Management Division (HMD). Wilson allegedly submitted documentation to HMD on the letterhead of Med Care Consultants in Brooklyn saying he was treated 10 times from January 5, 2022, to November 19, 2022. The letters were signed by one doctor and bore the stamp of another.
He also submitted 18 letters in which he claimed to be treated at Professional Care Physical Therapy on Staten Island from April 20, 2022, to September 27, 2022. The documents were on the practice’s letterhead and signed by a physical therapist. Wilson turned in 10 letters on the letterhead of Victory Internal Medicine/Mount Sinai Doctors on Staten Island that indicated he had been treated 10 times from April 24, 2022, to November 19, 2022. The letters were signed by a doctor. The defendant claimed to be treated 10 times at the office of a Queens physician 10 times from January 2, 2022, to September 11, 2022. The letters were signed by the doctor and were on his letterhead.
An investigation revealed that Wilson was not treated at any of the medical practices on the dates in question and that no one at those practices authorized the letters submitted by Wilson. Wilson also submitted letters allegedly signed by Dr. Walter Pizzi claiming he had been treated on April 27 and April 30, 2022. Pizzi died on December 24, 2021. On the 43 dates in question, Wilson received $13,727.45 in total pay.
QUEENS MAN SENTENCED TO UP TO 17 YEARS FOR TARGETING EX-GIRLFRIEND:
Brayahan Agudelo, While Being Investigated for Role in Car Theft Ring, Asked Undercover Officer to Paralyze Former Girlfriend; Defendant Assaulted Ex-Girlfriend and Instructed Mother to Continue Fear Campaign After His Arrest
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Brayahan Agudelo was sentenced to 13.8 to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to strangulation, stalking, burglary and other crimes for attacking his ex-girlfriend in 2025 and then enlisting an undercover police officer to harm her. Agudelo is accused of soliciting the officer, who was investigating the defendant in another case, to paralyze his ex-girlfriend in exchange for a firearm or a car. Agudelo’s mother, Maria Cruz, also pleaded guilty in connection with the same case.
District Attorney Katz said: “This defendant terrorized his ex-girlfriend. Then when he couldn’t do that anymore because he was in custody, his mother did it in his stead. The extent to which the defendant was willing to go to cause harm came to light during our investigation into his role in a car theft ring. Fortunately, working with our law enforcement partners at the NYPD, we were able to put a stop to this abhorrent conduct and find safe housing for the woman and her family. The defendant will now serve up to 17 years in prison.”
Agudelo, 32, of Jackson Heights, pleaded guilty in December to strangulation in the second degree, burglary in the first degree, stalking in the first degree, three counts of endangering the welfare of a child, conspiracy in the fourth degree, burglary in the second degree, criminal contempt in the first degree, and tampering with a witness in the fourth degree. Supreme Court Justice Michael Yavinsky sentenced him Friday to a minimum of 13.8 years in prison and a maximum of 17 years in prison to be followed by five years of post-release supervision. Cruz, 53, of Jackson Heights pleaded guilty in January to tampering with a witness in the fourth degree and stalking in the fourth degree and was sentenced by Supreme Court Justice Frances Wang to three years’ probation and 420 hours of community service.
DA Katz said that, according to the indictment and investigation, on April 10, 2025, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Agudelo put his arms around the neck of his ex-girlfriend at her home and applied pressure, causing her to lose consciousness. The 2-year-old daughter of the victim and Agudelo was present at the time. When police arrived, Agudelo had left. The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment. The ex-girlfriend called 911 on April 14, April 16, April 22 and April 25 to report Agudelo standing outside her apartment door. The defendant fled each time before police responded. On April 24, at approximately 12:17 a.m., Agudelo entered his former girlfriend’s residence through a bedroom window, brandished a knife and threatened her. When she attempted to run from the apartment, Agudelo pulled her by the hair to prevent her from leaving and took her cell phone. The victim managed to break away and opened her front door to scream for assistance. When police arrived, Agudelo had fled the apartment. The victim was observed to have bruise marks and indicated her arm was in pain.
On April 24 Agudelo engaged in a conversation with an undercover police officer investigating auto thefts as part of Operation Hellcat. The defendant asked the undercover if he could “make his wife a paraplegic,” referring to Agudelo’s former girlfriend. The defendant told the undercover in a conversation the next day that he wanted her hit in the back and physically disabled. Agudelo and the undercover detective agreed on compensation and a date the attack was to take place.
Police arrested Agudelo on April 25, 2025.
On April 28 and April 29, Agudelo made phone calls from jail to his mother, Maria Cruz, and directed her to go to his ex-girlfriend’s home and to her grandchildren’s school to convince the victim not to testify against him. During one conversation, the defendant provided his mother with a security code to access his former girlfriend’s apartment building and gave her specific instructions to evade security cameras. Agudelo told his mother to confront the former girlfriend with the defendant’s brother so that one could restrain and beat the woman while the other talked to her. This violated an order of protection issued against Agudelo. Cruz reported back to her son that she followed his instructions, but the victim was not at home at the time. Video surveillance obtained during the investigation showed Cruz inside the building and outside the victim’s apartment door on April 28 and 29.
The Queens District Attorney’s Office, working with law enforcement partners, arranged for safe housing for the victim and her family.
Agudelo was among 20 defendants indicted in May 2025 as part of the Operation Hellcat investigation into the theft of vehicles throughout New York City and its suburbs. He was accused of selling stolen cars and a gun to an undercover officer. In February, Agudelo pleaded guilty to criminal possession of stolen property in the second degree and criminal sale of a firearm in the third degree and is expected to be sentenced to up to six years in prison on May 12.
—With contributions by Augusta Luger
This column was originated by John A. Toscano.