{"id":214270,"date":"2026-04-29T17:06:54","date_gmt":"2026-04-29T17:06:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/214270\/"},"modified":"2026-04-29T17:06:54","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T17:06:54","slug":"i-on-politics-queens-gazette-26","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/214270\/","title":{"rendered":"I On Politics – Queens Gazette"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\u00a0\"<\/a><\/p>\n

GREEK AMERICAN HOMEOWNERS MEETING MAY 6:<\/p>\n

The next General Meeting of the Greek American Homeowners Association will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., and will be held at their headquarters located at 23-49 31st Street, Astoria.<\/p>\n

MAMDANI ESTABLISHES MAYOR\u2019S OFFICE OF DEED THEFT PREVENTION: <\/p>\n

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani established the City\u2019s first Mayor\u2019s Office of Deed Theft Prevention and appointed Peter White as the office\u2019s director.<\/p>\n

Deed theft, in which white-collar criminals use fraudulent filings to steal homes from longtime residents, is a persistent threat to working-class homeowners in New York. Families who have spent decades building stability and generational wealth are being targeted and displaced through complex scams that exploit gaps in oversight.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe theft of a home is the theft of a family\u2019s future,\u201d said Mayor Mamdani. \u201cDeed theft preys on the New Yorkers who can least afford it. Today, we are bringing the full force of City government to bear to stop it \u2013 to protect homeowners, defend generational wealth and make clear that this City will not tolerate the exploitation of our communities. I am proud to appoint Peter White as the director of New York City\u2019s first-ever Office of Deed Theft Prevention, where he will write a new story of leadership and action.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am deeply humbled to join the Mamdani administration as the Director of the Mayor\u2019s Office of Deed Theft Prevention. I have worked to protect New York City homeowners throughout my career, and will carry that passion into my new role serving New Yorkers,\u201d said Peter White, Director of the Mayor\u2019s Office of Deed Theft Prevention. \u201cI look forward to working with Mayor Mamdani and leaders across the city and state to bring an integrated approach to protecting working-class homeowners across the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

White, an attorney with Access Justice Brooklyn, has spent years representing homeowners facing foreclosure and deed theft. In his new role, he will lead a coordinated, citywide strategy to prevent fraud, support impacted residents and strengthen enforcement. White holds a law degree from St. John\u2019s University and a bachelor\u2019s degree from Fordham University, and has led extensive community outreach and legal clinic work alongside his practice.<\/p>\n

Over the last decade, thousands of deed theft complaints have been filed across New York City, with the highest concentration in Brooklyn and Queens. Black homeowners and neighborhoods have been disproportionately targeted, deepening racial wealth gaps and destabilizing communities.<\/p>\n

QBP STATEMENT ON JADEN PIERRE: <\/p>\n

Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.: \u201cJaden Pierre had a bright smile and a brighter future. He should still be alive today. He should be in class at Eagle Academy this morning before he goes home to his family tonight. But the 15-year-old\u2019s life was taken last Thursday in a shocking, senseless act of gun violence that has left his family shattered and his community stunned. This past Monday night, hundreds of neighbors came together at the site of his murder in Roy Wilkins Park to uplift his loved ones and honor his memory. But as I said during the vigil, it\u2019s on all of us to make sure Jaden\u2019s legacy lives on in the form of safer streets free of gun violence. It\u2019s on us in government to stop the flow of guns into our city and to build the safe spaces our kids need to thrive, like the $140 million new community center I helped secure for Roy Wilkins Park \u2014 a center that should be named after Jaden once it opens in a few years. It\u2019s on us as everyday residents of our communities, too, to step up and join one of our many neighborhood cure violence and mentorship organizations. These groups do lifesaving work on a daily basis to keep our kids on the right path, and there are no shortage of opportunities to help support their work. In Jaden\u2019s name and the names of everyone else we\u2019ve lost to gun violence, it\u2019s more important than ever that we all play our part in keeping our communities safe. My office is here to serve you and your family. To learn more about how we\u2019re working to build a better Queens, contact us by phone at 718-286-3000 or by email at info@queensbp.nyc.gov.\u201d<\/p>\n

WONG STATEMENT ON RELEASE OF DEFENDANT:<\/p>\n

Council Member Phil Wong (D-Maspeth\/Middle Village) issued the following statement following the release of a defendant in the Middle Village car takeover case due to bail reform laws:<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat we saw in Middle Village was dangerous and could have ended in tragedy. A judge reviewed this case and made it clear that the defendant poses a serious threat to public safety, yet was unable to keep him behind bars because her hands are tied. \u2018I believe the facts in front of me shows that this defendant poses a significant danger to society,\u2019 said Judge Indira Khan. \u2018I am very appalled by the alleged nature of this case and the potential for greater harm, however my hands are tied.\u2019 That should alarm every New Yorker.<\/p>\n

\u201cThese menaces do not belong on our streets. When individuals engage in reckless and chaotic behavior that puts lives at risk, there must be real consequences. Instead, we are seeing the continued impact of laws that prioritize offenders over public safety.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is not working. It is a failed social experiment that is putting our communities in danger. Albany must act to fix these laws and restore common sense to our criminal justice system. Public safety must come first.\u201d<\/p>\n

GONZ\u00c1LEZ-ROJAS HOSTED FOOD ACCESS EXPO:<\/p>\n

Assembly Member Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas successfully hosted a Community Food Access and Resource Expo on Saturday, April 25 at P.S. 019 Marino Jeantet School in Corona, bringing together community organizations, food providers, and public benefit advocates to support local families. The event welcomed residents from across the district and connected constituents with vital food assistance programs, nutrition resources, and enrollment support for benefits such as SNAP, WIC, and NOEP. Community members were also able to engage directly with local food pantries and distribution programs offering culturally relevant food options. The event featured a large-scale food distribution in which more than 500 pounds of fresh produce and dry goods were distributed to families, registered dietitians providing culturally appropriate nutrition guidance, and a live sofrito cooking demonstration. Additional resources for families, older adults, and youth were also available.<\/p>\n

\u201cYesterday\u2019s expo was a powerful example of what is possible when community comes together to care for one another. At a time when too many families are facing rising costs and uncertainty, we were proud to help connect our neighbors with healthy food, benefits, and services that can make a real difference. Together with our partners, we distributed more than 500 pounds of fresh produce to families across our community, helping put healthy, nourishing food on our neighbors\u2019 tables. I\u2019m deeply grateful to P.S. 19Q United Community Schools for hosting us, to my incredible staff, and to every organization that provided resources, education, and healthy food demonstrations. As food insecurity continues to rise, this work is about more than groceries, it is about dignity, access, and investing in our communities. I\u2019m proud to stand alongside our partners and will keep fighting for long-term solutions so every family can access fresh, affordable food,\u201d said Assembly Member Jessica Gonz\u00e1lez-Rojas.<\/p>\n

RAJKUMAR\u2019S STATEMENT ON FIRE IN WOODHAVEN:<\/p>\n

State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar: \u201cA fire at 90-21 76th Street right here Woodhaven has devastated all of us as two families\u2014five adults and five children\u2014are without their homes today. These are our neighbors, and they have our full support as they begin to recover. I have been in close contact with the Red Cross and FDNY to ensure that every resident affected receives the care and resources they need during this difficult time.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you or a loved one have 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. My office is an open door, and we are here to help every family in every way we can.\u201d<\/p>\n

ADDABBO TO HOST MOTHER\u2019S DAY CONCERT: <\/p>\n

In a celebration of motherhood and community, State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. invites residents to a free Mother\u2019s Day jazz concert honoring the spirit of moms everywhere. The show will showcase musical group Harmony 4 All and the performance is open to all ages. It will be held on May 1, 2026, from 7 p.m. \u2013 8 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 83-17 78th Avenue, Glendale.<\/p>\n

Harmony 4 All, founded by brother-sister duo Joshua and Bianca Quddus, provides musical education to underserved students in local schools, recognizing its vital role in emotional and intellectual development. They remove financial hurdles and provide access to musical materials that help students develop their love for music and creativity.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re so excited to invite you to a very special evening as we celebrate music, community, and the spirit of Mother\u2019s Day together,\u201d said co-founder Bianca Quddus. \u201cJoin us for our Mother\u2019s Day Concert \u2014 a heartfelt musical experience featuring talented young musicians and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all. This is more than a concert \u2014 it\u2019s a moment to come together, reflect, and enjoy the power of music across generations.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Mother\u2019s Day Concert will include standard jazz favorites that uplift and celebrate the spirit and strength of mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, godmothers and motherly women who lift generations and lead families. The church is intended to be an open place, communicating the sentiment that music and community can unite and improve families in celebration.<\/p>\n

\u201cMusic has a way of honoring the people who shape our lives, particularly the moms who love us and support us with resilience and grace,\u201d Addabbo said. \u201cIt\u2019s an amazing chance to take time and thank the amazing moms from all over our community. They\u2019re the foundation of our society. This concert is one way we can honor the sacrifices moms make and the joy they extend daily. Thanks to Harmony 4 All and Sacred Heart Church for their support of the community.\u201d<\/p>\n

WON ANNOUNCES FREE MOVIE NIGHTS:<\/p>\n

Council Member Julie Won announced that free movie nights and helmet giveaways are back!<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will also be hosting free, family-friendly movie nights throughout the summer in collaboration with NYC Parks. Find a new park to enjoy during one of our seven screenings. On May 8, we will be showing Lilo and Stitch at Hunter\u2019s Point Park South at 8:00 p.m., or shortly after sunset. We\u2019ll provide the popcorn; you just need to bring a chair or a blanket \u2026 Every year we give out hundreds of helmets to ensure that everyone is riding their bikes safely, whether you live in Woodside, Sunnyside, or Long Island City. Come to Hunter\u2019s Point South Park on July 13, 2026 to get fitted and take one home. You can wear it on your way back!\u201d<\/p>\n

WONG STATEMENT ON NYPD ENFORCEMENT AGAINST ILLEGAL CAR MEET-UPS:<\/p>\n

Council Member Phil Wong (D-Queens) released the following statement in response to NYPD enforcement actions targeting illegal car meet-ups:<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter another weekend of disruptive and dangerous car meet-ups across the city, I commend the NYPD for taking decisive action to restore order and protect our neighborhoods. I commend the officers of the 110th Precinct, along with Borough and citywide NYPD units, for their strong enforcement action. Citywide, the NYPD reported 20 vehicles seized, eight individuals arrested, and 101 summonses issued. Within the 110th Precinct, officers took swift action at 127th Street and Willets Point Boulevard, confiscating four vehicles equipped with massive speaker systems and seizing an additional 12 cars for further investigation. These so-called car meet-ups are anything but harmless. They bring chaos to our streets, disrupt entire neighborhoods, and pose real public safety risks. The NYPD has made clear this behavior will not be tolerated, and I fully support that approach. Anyone responsible must be held accountable. That means losing driving privileges, losing their vehicles, and losing the equipment used to disrupt our communities. If you choose to take part in this kind of reckless behavior, there should be real consequences. This is the kind of enforcement our communities have been asking for, and it must continue consistently to send a clear message: if you bring this into our neighborhoods, there will be consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

RAJKUMAR\u2019S STATEMENT ON PASSING OF JENNY MARIBEL CHACHO S\u00c1NCHEZ:<\/p>\n

State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar: \u201cIt is with profound sadness that I mourn the tragic loss of Jenny Maribel Chacho S\u00e1nchez of Ridgewood. A devoted mother and loving daughter, Jenny was fatally struck by a box truck while crossing the street after performing a simple act of care: dropping off her young daughter at school.<\/p>\n

\u201cJenny\u2019s life was defined by her unwavering devotion to her daughter and her family. She worked tirelessly to provide for them, ensuring her daughter\u2019s needs were met and that she could grow up surrounded by love and comfort. Her kindness and generosity touched everyone who knew her, and her sudden passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who loved her.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs her family works urgently to raise funds to repatriate Jenny\u2019s remains to her native Ecuador, my thoughts are with them in this time of unimaginable grief. May they find strength and solace in the love Jenny so freely gave, and may her memory inspire all of us to cherish our loved ones even more deeply.<\/p>\n

QUEENS CHAMBER ANNOUNCES AI TRAINING PROGRAM: <\/p>\n

The Queens Chamber of Commerce announced its Google.org AI Training Program, a free, hands-on initiative helping small business owners across Queens better understand and use artificial intelligence in practical, everyday ways.<\/p>\n

\u201cAI is moving fast, and for a lot of small business owners, it can feel complicated or out of reach,\u201d said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. \u201cThis program is about making it practical\u2014showing how these tools can actually help in the day-to-day, whether that\u2019s saving time, reaching customers more effectively, or running a business more efficiently. When you make that kind of access real, it creates opportunity across the board.\u201d<\/p>\n

Delivered in partnership with Google.org, the program is supporting 70 small businesses from across the borough, particularly those with limited experience using AI tools. Over the course of four sessions, participants will learn how to apply AI to real business needs, from enhancing marketing and customer communications to streamlining operations and improving decision-making.<\/p>\n

The program is built around a \u201chuman-AI alliance\u201d approach, reinforcing that these tools are meant to support\u2014not replace\u2014the expertise of business owners. Each session is tailored to the cohort, incorporating participants\u2019 industries, challenges, and goals into hands-on exercises and discussion.<\/p>\n

Participants are expected to attend all four sessions, take part in the training, and complete program surveys. Those who complete the program receive a $5,000 grant to help put what they\u2019ve learned into action.<\/p>\n

For more information, visit www.queenschamber.org.<\/p>\n

GILLIBRAND\u2019S SENIOR HUNGER PREVENTION ACT:<\/p>\n

Amid rising grocery prices and a cost-of-living crisis, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) held a virtual press conference to demand passage of her legislation to help seniors put food on the table. Nationwide, over 12 million older Americans face food insecurity. Despite this, less than one-third of eligible older adults are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).<\/p>\n

Gillibrand\u2019s Senior Hunger Prevention Act would increase the minimum monthly SNAP benefit for all participants and eliminate unnecessary administrative hurdles to make it easier for seniors to receive SNAP benefits. \u201cSkyrocketing grocery prices in President Trump\u2019s America have left too many seniors struggling to put food on the table,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cUnfortunately, the complexity of the current application process for SNAP benefits deters many older adults from using this critical resource. Other older adults have mobility and transportation challenges that make it difficult to go to the store, carry heavy groceries, or prepare meals at home. My legislation would simplify the SNAP application process for seniors, increase the monthly benefit available to all SNAP participants, and expand SNAP food delivery options. This is critical to make sure that every senior can access the nutritious food they need for healthy aging, and I am determined to get this bill across the finish line.\u201d<\/p>\n

ENERGY ASSISTANCE FUNDING RELEASED:<\/p>\n

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has successfully pushed the Trump administration to release over $400 million to help New York families afford their energy bills.<\/p>\n

The announcement comes as relief for working families across New York and the country who are facing sticker shock from their eye-popping gas and utility bills. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, roughly 1 out of 6 U.S. households (21.5 million nationwide) are behind on their energy bills in 2026.<\/p>\n

Earlier this month, Senator Gillibrand and a bipartisan group of senators demanded that the Trump administration release over $400 million in remaining Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding that Congress delivered in fiscal year (FY) 2026.<\/p>\n

Following this pressure from Senator Gillibrand, New York will receive an additional $40,356,315 in LIHEAP funds to go along with the more than $360 million in federal funding that the state previously received. As a result, New York will net a total of $401.2 million in LIHEAP aid this year to help New Yorkers afford their home utility bills. This means a $20 million increase over the previous year.<\/p>\n

\u201cLIHEAP is a commonsense, bipartisan program,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cIn the coldest and hottest months of the year, it lowers the cost of living and saves lives. President Trump is already causing fuel and gas prices to skyrocket due to his reckless choice to start a war in Iran. He continued to make life harder for working Americans by stalling hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding that Congress already allocated to LIHEAP from reaching families in need. Finally releasing these funds is a welcome step, and I will continue pushing back on the administration\u2019s recent budget proposal that eliminates LIHEAP in order to fund an unauthorized war of choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

MTA, PA OUTREACH ON UPCOMING JAMAICA LIRR STATION REDESIGN PROJECT:<\/p>\n

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, announced it has begun an in-person outreach program at the Jamaica Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station to directly engage with customers on the upcoming station redesign project. MTA staff will host a table at the station with officials from the Port Authority and local elected officials to provide members of the public with the opportunity to ask questions about the project and have their voices heard by project team members.<\/p>\n

\u201cJamaica Station is a key access point to JFK Airport for customers coming from New York City and from Long Island, as well as Westchester and Connecticut thanks to the new connection at Grand Central Madison,\u201d said Long Island Rail Road President Rob Free. \u201cA newly redesigned Jamaica will improve the customer experience and meet the increasing service demands of the millions of customers who connect there. Customer feedback means we\u2019ll know exactly what those millions of riders want to see in their new station.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJamaica Station is a critical transportation hub for the entire region, connecting millions of riders to their destinations every year,\u201d said MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer. \u201cAs we plan for the future of the station, rider feedback will ensure the improvements we deliver reflect the needs and priorities of the people who use this station every day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA project that will bring long overdue upgrades to Jamaica Station is about improving the experiences of the riders who use it, and we can\u2019t do that effectively without feedback from LIRR commuters, straphangers, and the thousands of airline passengers and employees who use the station to connect to AirTrain JFK every day,\u201d said Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia. \u201cWith Governor Hochul\u2019s support, we are transforming JFK into a world-class global gateway that will be served by an equally world-class AirTrain and Jamaica Station.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJamaica Station is more than a transit hub, it\u2019s a daily touchpoint for families throughout Queens,\u201d said New York State Senator Leroy Comrie. \u201cAs we look ahead to redesigning this space, it\u2019s important that the voices of the people who use it every day are central to the conversation. This outreach aims to meet riders where they are, listen to their experiences and ensure the future of Jamaica Station reflects the needs of our community. This presents a real opportunity to create a safer, more accessible, and more seamless connection between York College and downtown Jamaica with the LIRR, subway, AirTrain and bus services so we can deliver upgraded stations that are safe, clean, and secure.\u201d<\/p>\n

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*** CRIME BLOTTER **<\/p>\n

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GUY RIVERA SENTENCED TO 115 YEARS TO LIFE IN PRISON: <\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Guy Rivera was sentenced to 115 years to life in prison today after being convicted by a jury of aggravated manslaughter in the first degree and attempted murder in the first degree for fatally shooting NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller and attempting to murder NYPD Sergeant Sasha Rosen in Far Rockaway on March 25, 2024.<\/p>\n

Detective Diller was an officer at the time of his murder and was posthumously promoted to the rank of detective.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cThis defendant ignored repeated lawful commands and used an illegal firearm to kill a dedicated police officer and attempt to murder an NYPD sergeant. Jonathan Diller represented the very best of law enforcement: courage, commitment and service to community. He was a father, a husband and a son. He was also a dedicated member of the New York City Police Department who put on a uniform every day to protect our city. The void left by his senseless loss at the hands of this defendant is immeasurable. Today\u2019s sentence of 115 years to life in prison does not erase the tragedy of March 25, 2024, but it ensures that this defendant will never be free again to terrorize the streets of New York City.\u201d<\/p>\n

Guy Rivera, 36, of Long Island City, was convicted by a jury on April 1 of aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, attempted murder in the first degree and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. He was acquitted of murder in the first degree.<\/p>\n

Queens Supreme Court Justice Michael Aloise sentenced the defendant today to 25 years to life for aggravated manslaughter, 40 years to life for attempted murder, 25 years to life for one count of criminal possession of a weapon and 25 years to life for another count of criminal possession of a weapon. The terms will run consecutive to one another for a total prison term of 115 years to life in prison.<\/p>\n

DA Katz said that, according to the investigation and trial testimony, on March 25, 2024, at approximately 5:45 p.m., Detective Diller was on patrol in Far Rockaway with the NYPD\u2019s Queens South Community Response Team (CRT). CRT Sergeant Rosen noticed a gun-shaped bulge in the front pocket of the defendant\u2019s sweatshirt as Rivera exited a store on Mott Avenue with a second individual, Lindy Jones. Rivera entered the passenger seat of a 2016 Kia Soul parked in front of 19-19 Mott Avenue and Jones entered the driver seat.<\/p>\n

Detective Diller and the other members of the CRT team then approached the vehicle. Diller issued numerous commands to Rivera to roll down his window and step out of the vehicle, which the defendant ignored. The driver, Lindy Jones, also refused an order to unlock the vehicle and CRT Officer Delio Fernandez reached into the car and unlocked the doors from the driver\u2019s side control panel. Detective Diller then opened the passenger-side door and instructed Rivera to exit the vehicle. Instead of stepping from the vehicle, Rivera reached into his pocket with his right hand and ignored commands by CRT Officer Veckash Khedna to not put his hands in his pockets. Rivera then quickly drew a .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol from his pocket and fired at Detective Diller, striking him in the abdomen below his bulletproof vest.<\/p>\n

After shooting Detective Diller, Rivera pointed his gun directly at Sergeant Rosen\u2019s chest and pulled the trigger, but the gun jammed. Detective Diller wrestled the gun away from the defendant\u2019s hand and then collapsed on the street from his injuries. Detective Diller was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center where he underwent multiple blood transfusions and emergency surgery but succumbed to his wounds several hours later. The bullet from the defendant\u2019s gun severed Diller\u2019s iliac artery, which caused internal bleeding.<\/p>\n

After the defendant shot Detective Diller, Officer Khedna fired two shots, striking the defendant in the left armpit and right humerus. Rivera was arrested on the scene and transported to Jamaica Hospital where he received treatment for his injuries.<\/p>\n

On March 26, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation, members of the Queens District Attorney\u2019s Office and the 101st Precinct obtained a court-authorized search warrant for the vehicle. The execution of the warrant led to the discovery of a second gun: a loaded 9 mm pistol inside the glove compartment. The firearm was found to be defaced, with the serial number scratched off. Rivera\u2019s fingerprints and DNA were found on the gun.<\/p>\n

Jones, 43, of Edgemere was apprehended by CRT Officer Derval Whyte immediately after the shooting, and Jones was arraigned April 16, 2024, on an indictment charging him with criminal possession of a weapon in the second and third degrees. He was remanded into custody and faces up to 15 years in prison, if convicted.<\/p>\n

QUEENS MAN CHARGED WITH SEXUALLY ABUSING 6-YEAR OLD:<\/p>\n

Defendant Allegedly Approached and Groped Child Twice, Including in Toy Aisle; Faces Up to Seven Years in Prison, If Convicted<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Angel Farias was charged with sexual abuse and other crimes for touching a 6-year-old girl in a department store. Farias encountered the child, with whom he had no previous interaction, on April 16 and allegedly touched her genitals twice including once as the two were in the store\u2019s toy aisle.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cAs alleged, this defendant preyed on a young girl and subjected her to sexual abuse while she should have been safely browsing a toy aisle. No child should have to endure this. Thank you to the brave victim for coming forward and our partners at the NYPD for quickly apprehending the defendant.\u201d<\/p>\n

Farias, 71, of Jamaica, was arraigned last night on charges of sexual abuse in the first degree, forcible touching and endangering the welfare of a child. Queens Criminal Court Judge Anthony Battisti ordered the defendant to return to court April 24. If convicted, Farias faces up to seven years in prison.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said that, according to the charges, on April 16, between approximately 3:30 and 4 p.m., Farias encountered a 6-year-old girl at Marshalls on Jamaica Avenue in Jamaica. On two occasions, including in the store\u2019s toy aisle, Farias touched the child on her genitals. The defendant was apprehended at his home on Monday.<\/p>\n

TWO MEN INDICTED FOR SELLING 38 ILLEGAL GUNS:<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and New York City Police Department Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch announced today that Mouhamadou Sylla and Ncodjigui Sanogo are variously charged in a 131-count indictment with conspiracy, criminal sale of a firearm, weapon possession and other crimes for selling illegal guns during a long-term undercover investigation. One firearm sale took place outside the entrance of a Queens College building while Sanogo was in uniform and on duty as a security guard during the transaction.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cGetting guns off the street has to be our priority. These are 38 guns that will never be fired in our communities. One defendant went as far as selling a loaded .38-caliber revolver while working in uniform as a security guard on the Queens College campus. I thank the brave undercover NYPD officers who put themselves in harm\u2019s way to get these deadly weapons off the street and I commend the prosecutors in my Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau for their work on this investigation.\u201d<\/p>\n

NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch said: \u201cThe defendants in this case created a firearms trafficking operation to funnel dozens of dangerous weapons into our city, including untraceable ghost guns, a TEC-9, and a semiautomatic Glock conversion device. Thanks to our 13-month undercover investigation, the NYPD has taken 38 illegal firearms out of circulation. Large-scale seizures of this kind demonstrate the NYPD\u2019s precision-policing plan in action, which has helped to take nearly 1,500 guns off our streets so far this year. I thank our brave NYPD investigators for their work in shutting down this operation, and the Queens District Attorney\u2019s Office for their partnership in holding these criminals accountable.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sylla, 25, of West Harlem, and Sanogo, 29, of Harlem, were charged in a 131-count indictment with criminal sale of a firearm in the first degree, conspiracy in the fourth degree, two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, six counts of criminal sale of a firearm in the third degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree and criminal possession of a firearm.<\/p>\n

Sylla was additionally charged with 24 counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, 68 counts of criminal sale of a firearm in the third degree, 15 counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, six counts of criminal possession of a firearm, criminal sale of a ghost gun, criminal sale of a firearm in the second degree, attempted criminal sale of a weapon in the second and third degrees and two counts of attempted criminal sale of a firearm in the third degree.<\/p>\n

The defendants were arraigned on Tuesday before Queens Supreme Court Justice Toni Cimino who remanded them and ordered them to return to court June 9. If convicted, they face up to 25 years in prison.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said that, according to the indictment and investigation, in April 2025, the NYPD Firearms Suppression Division and the Queens District Attorney\u2019s office began an undercover investigation into illegal gun sales in New York City.<\/p>\n

On June 10, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., Sylla and Sanogo allegedly sold a loaded and operable .38-caliber Titan Tiger revolver to an undercover officer for $1,250. The sale took place on Kissena Boulevard outside a building at Queens College where Sanogo was employed by a private company as a security guard at the school. He was on duty and in uniform during the sale and re-entered Kissena Hall after the transaction. Sylla then allegedly sold two guns to an undercover officer in a College Point parking lot on June 17, 2025, at approximately 1:45 p.m., and one gun on July 2, 2025, at approximately 7:40 p.m. One gun was sold to an undercover officer on June 19, 2025, at approximately 3:40 p.m., in the Melrose section of the Bronx. Twelve gun sales occurred on a Woodhaven street bordering Forest Park from August 28, 2025, through April 8, 2026.<\/p>\n

Sylla drove a 2022 Kia sedan to the transactions and allegedly sold the guns for approximately $1,200 each. Sanogo allegedly served as a courier in three of the 16 transactions.<\/p>\n

Of the 38 guns sold in the investigation, two were reported stolen in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Another handgun acquired during the investigation is connected to multiple shootings in Newark, New Jersey. Most of the guns sold to the undercover officers were loaded and the purchases included a machine gun and 9 mm pistols.<\/p>\n

Sylla was apprehended in Queens and Sanogo in Manhattan Tuesday morning by members of the Firearms Suppression Section of the NYPD.<\/p>\n

DRIVER CHARGED WITH RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT AND RIOT:<\/p>\n

Asil Assaidi Allegedly Recklessly Drove Car Through Fire in Figure Eight Pattern Near Pedestrians and Gas Stations; Faces Up to Seven Years if Prison, If Convicted<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Asil Assaidi was charged with reckless endangerment, riot and other related crimes for performing dangerous, fiery driving stunts near two gas stations near the border of Middle Village and Maspeth on April 18. As a crowd of bystanders stood nearby, Assaidi and another driver circled the intersection of 69th Street and Eliot Avenue creating sparks and skid marks with their cars.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cAs alleged, this defendant put countless people in peril as he recklessly drove on a fiery street near pedestrians and gas stations. This careless stunt very easily could have ended in injuries and death. We are determined to find and prosecute the people who organized and participated in this dangerous and illegal car meetup. The investigation into this case is ongoing and I thank our partners at the NYPD for their assistance in this case.\u201d<\/p>\n

Assaidi, 22, of the Bronx, was arraigned this morning on a six-count criminal complaint charging him with reckless endangerment in the first degree, riot in the second degree, unlawful assembly, reckless driving, operating or driving a motor vehicle without a license and operating a motor vehicle without insurance. The charges are not bail eligible under New York state law. Queens Criminal Court Judge Indira Khan ordered the defendant to return to court May 14. If convicted of the top charge, Assaidi faces up to seven years in prison.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said that, according to the complaint, on April 18, 2026, at approximately 1:45 a.m., Asil Assaidi was operating a blue Infiniti G37 with a dark hood panel and missing front bumper at the intersection of 69th Street and Eliot Avenue. The defendant was among a large congregation of people near a BP gas station and a Mobil gas station. The defendant drove the vehicle in multiples circles around the intersection nearly colliding with several people standing nearby. Skid marks formed on the road surface and smoke and sparks were produced from the rear end of the car. An individual poured liquid onto the ground and ignited a ring of flames between the defendant\u2019s car and the assembled crowd. The defendant repeated the reckless driving with a second driver in a silver vehicle that included a second ring of flames in front of the crowd.<\/p>\n

By approximately 1:50 a.m., NYPD officers in marked patrol cars arrived at the intersection of 69th Street and Eliot Avenue in response to multiple 911 calls as Assaidi and the second car continued to drive in circles. Police officers in marked patrol cars began dispersing the crowd of approximately 100 people and 50 cars. At that time, an individual used a traffic barrier to block one of the patrol cars and two other individuals jumped onto the police vehicle\u2019s hood and cracked the windshield. The trio then fled amidst the departing crowd and vehicles leaving the area.<\/p>\n

Law enforcement officials later identified the defendant as the driver of the blue Infiniti G37 via video footage of the incident.<\/p>\n

TEENAGER CHARGED WITH MURDER FOR SHOOTING DEATH:<\/p>\n

Defendant Allegedly Drew a Gun and Shot Pierre While Victim Was Surrounded and Attacked; Investigation into Gang Assault Remains Ongoing; Defendant Faces up to 25 Years to Life in Prison, if Convicted<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Zahir Davis was arraigned and remanded today on charges of murder in the second degree, gang assault in the first degree and criminal possession of a weapon for the shooting death of 15-year-old Jaden Pierre in Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans on April 16.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cThis murder has shocked and outraged our city. As alleged, unarmed 15-year-old Jaden Pierre was mercilessly beaten by a group of teens in Roy Wilkins Park when defendant Zahir Davis pulled out a silver handgun and \u2013 without provocation \u2013 shot the victim once in the chest, killing him. The defendant then allegedly took a flight to the island of Jamaica to evade responsibility. This senseless act of gun violence will not go unanswered. No parent should ever have to bury their 15-year-old child, and my office will vigorously prosecute this case to ensure justice for Jaden and his loved ones.\u201d<\/p>\n

Davis, 18, of Springfield Gardens, was charged in a criminal complaint with murder in the second degree, gang assault in the first degree and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. He was arraigned this morning before Judge Michael Hartofilis, who remanded the defendant and ordered him to return to court on April 29. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 25 years to life in prison.<\/p>\n

Davis was also arraigned on a separate criminal complaint charging him with two counts of aggravated harassment in the second degree and harassment in the second degree for allegedly threatening to shoot his ex-girlfriend, who is the mother of his child, on April 12.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said that, according to the charges, on April 16, at approximately 6:15 p.m., Jaden Pierre was at Roy Wilkins Park with a large group of teenagers who gathered for a water fight advertised on social media. During the gathering a group of boys attacked Jaden, punching and kicking him repeatedly. As the group of boys continued to surround Jaden, the defendant allegedly approached the victim, pulled out a silver firearm from his bag and shot Jaden in the upper chest. Jaden fell to the ground and was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Davis then fled to the island of Jamaica after the shooting and returned to the United States on Friday evening. He surrendered to members of the NYPD\u2019s 113th Precinct.<\/p>\n

The investigation into the gang assault remains ongoing.<\/p>\n

FUGITIVE AND CODEFENDANT EXTRADITED AFTER FLEEING TO PANAMA:<\/p>\n

Juan Acevedo Allegedly Cut Off Ankle Monitor Following Two Court Arraignments on Multiple Burglary Charges; Apprehended at Panama Airport with Codefendant; Acevedo Faces Up to 79 Years, If Convicted<\/p>\n

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Juan Acevedo was arraigned and remanded today on grand jury indictment charges of escape, criminal contempt and criminal mischief for fleeing the country days after his criminal court arraignment on burglary charges for allegedly breaking into homes in December 2025 and February 2026. The defendant was charged previously in a separate indictment for allegedly stealing cash, jewelry and designer handbags during three home burglaries on a single day last year.<\/p>\n

Acevedo allegedly cut off his court-ordered ankle monitor on March 9, 2026. Following a month-long investigation into the defendant\u2019s whereabouts, Acevedo was apprehended on April 1, 2026, in Panama at the request of the United States. He and a codefendant were extradited to New York yesterday.<\/p>\n

District Attorney Katz said: \u201cAs alleged, this defendant cut off his ankle monitor and left the country after being indicted for invading the sanctity of people\u2019s homes over and over again. He blatantly defied the criminal justice system and we were relentless in returning him to this borough to be held accountable for his actions. I thank the members of my Career Criminal\/Major Crimes Bureau and Extradition Unit, as well as our state and federal law enforcement partners for ensuring the defendant\u2019s return. A codefendant has also been brought back to face burglary indictment charges. Both defendants have been remanded without bail.\u201d<\/p>\n

Acevedo, 30, of College Point, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with escape in the second degree, criminal contempt in the second degree and criminal mischief in the fourth degree. He was also arraigned on an indictment charging him with burglary in the second degree, grand larceny in the third degree, criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree, burglary in the second degree and grand larceny in the second degree for the December 2025 and February 2026 incidents.<\/p>\n

Supreme Court Justice David Kirschner remanded the defendant and ordered him to return to court May 27. If convicted, Acevedo faces up to 79 years in prison.<\/p>\n

Codefendant Jeison Figueroa Nomesqui, 33, of Flushing, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with burglary in the second degree, grand larceny in the second degree, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, reckless driving, failing to make a lawful U-turn, operating a vehicle at unreasonable speed and operating a motor vehicle without a license. Supreme Court Justice David Kirschner remanded the defendant and ordered him to return to court May 27. If convicted, Nomesqui faces up to 15 years in prison.<\/p>\n

DA Katz said that according to the indictment and investigation, Acevedo \u2013 acting in concert with two others who have not been apprehended \u2013 rented a Porsche and drove to three residences on March 5, 2025. At approximately 11:45 a.m., Acevedo allegedly broke into a home on Springfield Boulevard in Bayside. Acevedo and his crew stole $9,800 in designer handbags and cash. When the police responded, they found a winter hat in the immediate vicinity of the home. DNA later retrieved from the hat matched the defendant. At approximately 3:51 p.m., Acevedo allegedly hopped a fence and broke into a home on 219th Street in Queens Village. The crew stole designer handbags, jewelry and money valued at $30,200. At approximately 5:40 p.m., Acevedo and others broke into a home on Boelsen Crescent in Rego Park. They stole jewelry valued at $1,500. Unbeknownst to Acevedo, the rented Porsche had a GPS tracker from the rental company that linked the defendant\u2019s whereabouts to all three residences at the time of the crimes.<\/p>\n

Following a long-term investigation into the burglaries, Acevedo was arrested and arraigned on December 5, 2025, on indictment charges of burglary in the second degree, burglary in the third degree, grand larceny in the third degree, criminal mischief in the fourth degree and grand larceny in the fourth degree. The court ordered supervised release with electronic monitoring as part of his pre-trial release conditions. Acevedo was outfitted with an ankle monitor on February 25, 2026.<\/p>\n

Following Acevedo\u2019s December indictment, the Queens District Attorney\u2019s office continued their investigation into additional burglaries and determined that Acevedo allegedly burglarized more homes in December 2025 and February 2026.<\/p>\n

According to the second indictment, on December 29, 2025, at approximately 6:40 p.m., Acevedo and two others broke into a home on 166th Street in East Flushing and stole jewelry valued at $20,000. The jewelry was sold at an exchange in Manhattan the next day. On February 16, 2026, at approximately 7:48 p.m., Acevedo and two others broke into a home on 229th Street in Oakland Gardens using a collapsible ladder and stole $100,000 in cash and jewelry. Codefendant Nomesqui was present at the scene and allegedly acted as the getaway driver. On March 6, 2026, Acevedo was arraigned in criminal court on charges stemming from the December 29, 2025, and February 16, 2026, incidents. The Queens District Attorney\u2019s Office argued for remand, but the court ordered continued electronic monitoring.<\/p>\n

On March 7, pursuant to the investigation into the February 16 incident, officers attempted to pull over Nomesqui at the intersection of Cross Bay Boulevard and 107th Avenue. Nomesqui allegedly made an illegal U-turn, sped past the posted speed limit and swerved in and out of lanes without signaling to evade the officers. He was finally pulled over and arrested for the February 16 burglary as well as the vehicle infractions on the scene and driving with a suspended license. At Nomesqui\u2019s arraignment, the court ordered supervised release with a return date of April 22.<\/p>\n

On March 9, two days after Acevedo was released with continued electronic monitoring upon arraignment, law enforcement officials received an alert that Acevedo\u2019s ankle monitor strap had been cut and the last known location was near the Grand Central Parkway. Members of the NYPD immediately attempted to locate the defendant but were only able to find the cut bracelet at the last known location. A bench warrant was issued for Acevedo\u2019s arrest.<\/p>\n

The Queens District Attorney\u2019s office, in partnership with the NYPD\u2019s Queens North Burglary Task Force, Queens Warrant Squad and federal law enforcement partners, submitted multiple search warrants and subpoenas in an attempt to locate Acevedo.<\/p>\n

Following a month-long investigation, Acevedo was apprehended on April 1, 2026, at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City after presenting a forged Colombian passport before boarding a flight to Bogota, Colombia. Codefendant Nomesqui was at the scene and apprehended along with Acevedo.<\/p>\n

The District Attorney\u2019s Extraditions Unit, led by Section Chief Timothy McGrath, worked with our federal and local law enforcement partners to secure the defendants\u2019 return to New York.<\/p>\n

\u2014With contributions by Augusta Luger <\/p>\n

This column was originated by John A. Toscano. <\/p>\n

For more I on Pols, visit this week\u2019s QGazette.com.<\/p>\n

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