IMPORTANT LEGISLATION PASSED IN THE LAST TWO WEEKS

A456 (Rosenthal L) requires the board of directors of residential cooperative corporations and not-for-profit corporations to provide tenants with changes to the by-laws in writing. This legislation renders the tenants with rights to be given notice of such changes.

A1148 (Gottfried) requires every general hospital to have a community advisory board. This legislation will allow for communities to establish their needs while also providing vital information and programs.

A3002 (Solages) requires each industrial development agency to live stream and post video recordings of all open meetings and public hearings. This legislation allows for constituents to view live streams and recordings at all times. Therefore, it increases transparency and allows for communication

with the whole community.

A3471 (Zebrowski) decreases the amount of alcohol in a person's system necessary to be considered to be intoxicated while hunting. This legislation makes it unlawful to be above the 0.8% BAC while hunting. It lowers the risk of any accidents while hunting and protects the people from harm due to intoxication.

A6188 (Lentol) protects the tenant with rights towards any kind of harassment and eliminates the need to prove a physical injury, therefore protecting victims of harassment.

A3077 (Gottfried) – simplifies the process by which physicians and other health care professionals are credentialed by health care plans and hospitals, as well as to standardize the referral forms that primary care physicians use to facilitate care for a patient by a specialist physician.

A2653A (Dinowitz) increases the applicability of the plain language law to consumer contracts involving amounts up to $250,000.

A4275 (DenDekker) authorizes a study that will review the rate of the fees and charges being assessed to residents of assisted living facilities. Residents of assisted living facilities should not have to worry about affording their stay in these facilities as a result of fees and charges.

  

Assemblywoman Fernandez stands in support of the NY Truth Act, that would require the release of NY income tax returns for statewide elected officials, including the President.

Assemblywoman Fernandez speaks in support of the SCAR Act, A1436A, which identifies where the children separated at our countries borders are, holding us accountable to bring families together.

Assemblywoman Fernandez allocated fund to our local libraries last year. The Allerton Branch used the funding for their new Kids Corner and Meet-the-Author program. Children attendance at the library has almost doubled since!

IMPORTANT RESOLUTION PASSED IN THE LAST TWO WEEKS

K216 (Joyner) memorializes April 2019 as Oral Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York.

K221 (DeStefano) memorializes April 2019 as Bullying Prevention Month in the State of New York.

K230 (Lupardo) memorializes the week of April 7-13, 2019 as Crime Victims' Rights Week in the State of New York.

K234 (Barrett) memorializes proclaim March 29, 2019 as Vietnam Veterans' Day in the State of New York.

K235 (Rosenthal L) memorializes 8:30pm-9:30pm on Saturday, March 30, 2019, as Earth Hour in the State of New York.

Young Professionals Happy Hour

Friday, April 26th from 5-8pm at Lexa Bar and Grill (357 E.204th Street)

Join me and Senator Jamaal Bailey as we host a happy hour for Young Professionals. Come, meet, and network with like-minded people!

Prom Beyond Expo

Saturday, April 27th from 11am-4pm at North Central Hospital (3424 Kossuth Ave 17th floor)

We, alongside Lady Pamela Damon's Talitha Cumi Urban Etiquette & Leadership Academy and Senator Jamaal Bailey, are hosting a Prom Giveaway.

DISTRICT OFFICE
2018 Williamsbridge Road Bronx, NY 10461
(718) 409-0109

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR DE BLASIO ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S THREAT TO RELEASE DETAINED UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS IN NEW YORK CITY

 

“President Trump has yet again proven that the only constant in his immigration policy is cruelty. He uses people like pawns. New York City will always be the ultimate city of immigrants – the President’s empty threats won’t change that.”

EDITOR'S NOTE:

  We thank Vice-Presidential candidate Bill de Blasio for his statement, but say "Bill de Blasio - Where are you?"

NYC Council Member Andy King Applauds Governor’s Comprehensive Agenda to Combat K2

  “At a time when there is so much conversation on the tolerance of substance use, I applaud Governor Cuomo for his aggressive, multi-agency and multifaceted initiative tackling the scourge of synthetic marijuana, or K2, in our great state," said Council Member Andy King (D-Bronx), who introduced a bill in the New York City Council last week to increase fines to business owners and landlords of establishments where K2 has been sold. “We are sending a clear message state- and city-wide that our communities will not be engulfed by illegal drug use and those who have profited from the sales.  The goal is to ensure that our families live in a safe and drug-free environment.”

Bronx Man Convicted Of Defacing African Burial Ground National Monument With Threatening Racial Slur

  Geoffrey S. Berman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that IVAN NIEVES was convicted of vandalism for defacing a sign on the grounds of the African Burial Ground National Monument by writing a threatening racial slur on it.  The conviction follows a bench trial before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang.

U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said:  “The protections of the First Amendment do not extend to defacing federal property.  Ivan Nieves was rightly found guilty today for defacing the African Burial Ground National Monument with racial slurs.”

According to the evidence presented during the trial: 

On the morning of November 1, 2018, NIEVES wrote “Kill N----rs” in large bold letters across the face of a signpost entitled “A Place of Remembrance” in front of the African Burial Ground National Monument, which is located at the corner of Duane Street and Elk Street in Manhattan.  The monument commemorates the skeletal remains of approximately 15,000 African slaves who built the early City of New York.  Those remains were discovered in 1991 buried 30 feet beneath the streets of the city across more than six acres in lower Manhattan.

NIEVES, 57, of the Bronx, New York, was convicted of one count of vandalism, which carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison.  NIEVES was acquitted of one count of disorderly conduct.  The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.  NIEVES is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Wang on July 17, 2019, at 11:00 a.m.

Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Protective Service, the New York City Police Department Hate Crimes Task Force, and the United States Park Police.  Mr. Berman also thanked the National Park Service for its dedication and assistance.

NYPD Raises Awareness about the Dangers of Left Turns in New Video

Left turns caused at least 70 preventable pedestrian collision deaths since 2016

  The NYPD launched a new public awareness video today warning of the specific dangers posed by vehicles making left turns at crosswalks and intersections. Left turns cause disproportionate levels of preventable injuries and deaths every year, because they pose unique traffic safety threats.

"While we have made progress in our quest for Vision Zero through education, enforcement, and engineering, any injury or fatality is unacceptable, and preventable," said NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan. "When a loved one doesn't come home as a result of being struck by a vehicle it is no less tragic than losing that same loved one to any other form of violence."

The video includes remarks from NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan, and also features testimonials from New York City parents who lost children to tragic traffic collisions. Amy Tam-Liao and His-Pei Liao lost their young daughter Allison when she was struck by a left-turning vehicle while crossing a street with her grandmother. Dana Lerner lost her son Cooper Stock, 9 when he was struck by a left-turning vehicle. The families now advocate to eliminate roadway deaths as part of Families for Safe Streets.

Since 2016, 70 pedestrians were taken from their family as a result of left turning vehicles. In 2018 alone, 21 people lost their lives to dangerous left turns, out of 116 pedestrian deaths. In 2018, approximately 33% of pedestrian injury collisions were a left-turning vehicle.

Left turns are more dangerous than right turns for three main reasons:

1. Left turns can be taken at a wider radius, which leads to higher speeds and greater pedestrian exposure
2. The driver's visibility is partially obscured by parked cars and the vehicle's A-pillar
3. Left turns are more complicated than right turns, and require more mental and physical effort ("driver workload") than right turns

The video is the most recent extension of the successful Vision Zero program, New York City's action plan to end traffic deaths and injuries. As part of Vision Zero, NYPD has enhanced enforcement of dangerous driving, such as Improper Turns and Failure to Yield to Pedestrians. Since the plan's inception in 2014, traffic fatalities have hit historic lows. 2018 saw the lowest amount of lives lost to collisions since 1910. 2018 also saw a decrease in overall fatalities since 2017, and vision zero summons have been up every year since 2014.

Year	Collision Fatalities
2010	268
2011	249
2012	277
2013	298
Vision Zero Begins
2014	255
2015	234
2016	231
2017	221
2018	202

At part of the Vision Zero program, NYPD increased enforcement of several fractions that lead to collisions. They include speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians, improper turns, cell phone usage, texting, and disobeying signs.

Year	Vision Zero Summonses
2013	485,178
Vision Zero Begins
2014	569,754
2015	596,767
2016	638,095
2017	685,570
2018	704,284

The NYPD launched a new public awareness video today warning of the specific dangers posed by vehicles making left turns at crosswalks and intersections. Left turns cause disproportionate levels of preventable injuries and deaths every year, because they pose unique traffic safety threats.

"While we have made progress in our quest for Vision Zero through education, enforcement, and engineering, any injury or fatality is unacceptable, and preventable," said NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan. "When a loved one doesn't come home as a result of being struck by a vehicle it is no less tragic than losing that same loved one to any other form of violence."

The video includes remarks from NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan, and also features testimonials from New York City parents who lost children to tragic traffic collisions. Amy Tam-Liao and His-Pei Liao lost their young daughter Allison when she was struck by a left-turning vehicle while crossing a street with her grandmother. Dana Lerner lost her son Cooper Stock, 9 when he was struck by a left-turning vehicle. The families now advocate to eliminate roadway deaths as part of Families for Safe Streets.

Since 2016, 70 pedestrians were taken from their family as a result of left turning vehicles. In 2018 alone, 21 people lost their lives to dangerous left turns, out of 116 pedestrian deaths. In 2018, approximately 33% of pedestrian injury collisions were a left-turning vehicle.

Left turns are more dangerous than right turns for three main reasons:

1. Left turns can be taken at a wider radius, which leads to higher speeds and greater pedestrian exposure
2. The driver's visibility is partially obscured by parked cars and the vehicle's A-pillar
3. Left turns are more complicated than right turns, and require more mental and physical effort ("driver workload") than right turns

The video is the most recent extension of the successful Vision Zero program, New York City's action plan to end traffic deaths and injuries. As part of Vision Zero, NYPD has enhanced enforcement of dangerous driving, such as Improper Turns and Failure to Yield to Pedestrians. Since the plan's inception in 2014, traffic fatalities have hit historic lows. 2018 saw the lowest amount of lives lost to collisions since 1910. 2018 also saw a decrease in overall fatalities since 2017, and vision zero summons have been up every year since 2014.

Year	Collision Fatalities
2010	268
2011	249
2012	277
2013	298
Vision Zero Begins
2014	255
2015	234
2016	231
2017	221
2018	202

At part of the Vision Zero program, NYPD increased enforcement of several fractions that lead to collisions. They include speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians, improper turns, cell phone usage, texting, and disobeying signs.

Year	Vision Zero Summonses
2013	485,178
Vision Zero Begins
2014	569,754
2015	596,767
2016	638,095
2017	685,570
2018	704,284

The link  to the video   https://youtu.be/vy6KXHjDU24

Former New York City Human Resources Administration Employee And Two Others Plead Guilty To Scheme Involving Theft Of Hundreds Of Thousands In HRA Funds

  Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that ELIANA BAUTA pled guilty in Manhattan federal court to her involvement in a scheme to steal over $300,000 in funds from the New York City Human Resources Administration (“HRA”).  BAUTA perpetrated the offenses in her capacity as an HRA employee.  BAUTA pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni to federal program theft.  BAUTA also pled guilty on March 25, 2019 before Judge Caproni to conspiring to commit wire fraud.  Co-defendant GERALDINE PEREZ pled guilty before Judge Caproni on February 5, 2019, to her role in the HRA scheme and also to a separate fraudulent scheme involving more than $90,000 of stolen or fraudulently issued U.S. Treasury checks.  Co-defendant ERIC GONZALES pled guilty before Judge Caproni on February 5, 2019, to misdemeanor bank theft.

Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said:  “HRA employees like Eliana Bauta are trusted to use their positions to help people in need.  Instead, as she has now admitted, Bauta egregiously abused that trust, working with her co-conspirators to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars intended for New York’s needy.  As the guilty pleas in this case indicate, we remain vigilant in seeking out and prosecuting abuses of trust by City employees and remain committed to ensuring that federal and local funds go to their intended recipients.”

According to the Complaint, the Indictment, and statements made in the plea proceedings today and on February 5 and March 25, 2019:                 

HRA is an agency of the City of New York responsible for administering the majority of the City’s public assistance programs.  Among other things, HRA provides temporary, emergency cash assistance to individuals and families with social service and economic needs to assist them in reaching self-sufficiency.  The emergency assistance is funded by the federal government as well as by New York State and the City.

Since 2015, the City Department of Investigation-Office of Inspector General (“DOI-OIG”) has been investigating two related schemes in which an HRA employee – BAUTA – defrauded HRA and the City by using her position to commit public assistance fraud.  BAUTA worked as a Job Opportunity Specialist for HRA from approximately January 2008 to on or about May 23, 2018.  As a Job Opportunity Specialist, BAUTA was at various points responsible for interviewing benefits applicants, compiling and submitting applicants’ paperwork, and disbursing applicants’ benefits.

In the first of the two schemes, BAUTA is alleged to have caused the fraudulent issuance of emergency benefits funds to relatives and acquaintances, including GERALDINE PEREZ and ERIC GONZALES, among others, who in truth and in fact did not qualify for those funds.  For example, BAUTA altered a police report submitted by an actual HRA client by changing the name of the victim to a family member’s name, and then entered the doctored report into HRA systems in support of a request for benefits to be issued to that family member.  On another occasion, BAUTA submitted a request for emergency benefits to be issued to an individual after an alleged disaster, but no such disaster had occurred.  Both PEREZ and GONZALEZ were knowing recipients of such fraudulently issued funds and shared the proceeds with BAUTA.

In the second scheme, BAUTA is alleged to have obtained access to and misappropriated emergency benefits checks issued to actual HRA clients.  Instead of providing the checks to the legitimate clients in need of emergency funding, BAUTA gave them to PEREZ and GONZALES, among other of BAUTA’s relatives and associates, who deposited the checks in their own bank accounts and withdrew the funds, and then shared the proceeds with BAUTA.  In total, the two schemes resulted in losses to HRA of at least $309,000 in public funds.

In addition to obtaining stolen HRA checks into her bank account and the bank accounts of family members, PEREZ also deposited or caused to be deposited into these same accounts improperly obtained United States Treasury checks that were issued to other individuals as tax refunds.  In total, 23 such checks worth more than $91,000 were deposited into bank accounts of PEREZ and her family members and associates.  PEREZ then split the proceeds with a tax preparer who assisted in the scheme.

BAUTA, 35, of the Bronx, New York, pled guilty to one count of federal program theft, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison. 

PEREZ, 60, of the Bronx, New York, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit federal program theft, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison; and one count of receiving stolen government money or property, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison. 

GONZALES, 26, of the Bronx New York, pled guilty to one count of misdemeanor bank theft, which carries a maximum potential sentence of one year in prison. 

The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants would be determined by the judge.  BAUTA is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Caproni on July 17, 2019.  PEREZ is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Caproni on May 16, 2019.  GONZALES is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Caproni on June 20, 2019.

Mr. Berman praised the investigative work of DOI and the Internal Revenue Service.  

Vincent Esposito Pleads Guilty In Manhattan Federal Court To Racketeering Conspiracy

  Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Michael C. Mikulka, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (“DOL-OIG”), and James P. O’Neill, Police Commissioner of the City of New York (“NYPD”), announced that VINCENT ESPOSITO pled guilty today to conspiring to commit racketeering offenses with members and associates of the Genovese Crime Family of La Cosa Nostra.  ESPOSITO pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.  

U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said:  “As he admitted today, for more than a decade Vincent Esposito made millions with members of the Genovese Crime Family by extorting payments, demanding kickbacks, committing fraud, and instilling fear.  Thanks to an extensive investigation by our law enforcement partners, Esposito has been unmasked as a criminal and put out of business.”

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “The shakedown of union officials, racketeering and extortion may sound like throwback behavior of mobsters who operated decades ago.   However, the bread and butter of the mafia is to make money, so the illegal enterprises they’ve always engaged in are being used even in the modern era.  The FBI New York Organized Crime Task Force will investigate whatever illicit activity the mob chooses to pursue, in order to stop their criminal behavior.”

DOL-OIG Special Agent in Charge Michael C. Mikulka said:  “Vincent Esposito engaged in a scheme to extort annual cash payments from a union official by threatening violence or the loss of their position if they did not give in to his extortionate demands.  Esposito’s guilty plea affirms the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General’s commitment to protecting unions and their members from those who seek to exploit unions for their own personal gain.  We will continue to work with our local and federal law enforcement partners to ensure unions can operate in a fair and just environment and function within the confines of federal law.”

Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill said:  “The NYPD, its law enforcement partners and others in government are committed to eradicating organized crime in the City of New York.  Associates of La Cosa Nostra – or any other enterprise that seeks to enrich its members through racketeering and the threat of violence – should know that investigators will build strong cases against them and they will be prosecuted.  I want to thank the members of the NYPD, the FBI, the Southern District and the members of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General and Office of Labor-Management Standards for their work on this case.”    

According to the Indictment and statements made during public court proceedings:

La Cosa Nostra, also known as the “Mob” or the “Mafia,” operates through entities known as “Families.”  One of the Families operating in the New York City area is the Genovese Crime Family.  For years, continuing until 2017, ESPOSITO conspired with other members and associates of the Genovese Crime Family to commit a wide range of crimes to enrich themselves, including multiple acts of extortion, honest services fraud, and bribery.  Among other things, ESPOSITO directed the long-running extortion of a union official (“Official-1”) for annual tribute payments of more than over $10,000, and had a number of lower-ranking members of the enterprise collect money and convey threats to Official-1 on Esposito’s behalf.  In another extortion scheme, ESPOSITO’s co-conspirators extorted a different union official (“Official-2”) and a financial adviser (the “Adviser”) for a cut of commissions made from union investments.

At the time of ESPOSITO’s arrest, the FBI executed a search warrant on his home and seized more than $3.8 million in U.S. currency hidden throughout the residence, along with an unregistered handgun, ammunition, brass knuckles, and lists of made members of the Genovese Crime Family.  As part of today’s guilty plea, ESPOSITO agreed to forfeit the more than $3.8 million seized by the FBI as criminal proceeds resulting from the offense. 

Mr. Berman also announced that two other co-defendants, FRANK COGNETTA and VINCENT D’ACUNTO, both former union officials, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit racketeering.  As part of the conspiracy, D’ACUNTO participated in the extortion of Official-1.  Also as part of the conspiracy, COGNETTA engaged in various schemes to defraud his union of his honest services by, among other things, soliciting and accepting bribes and steering union benefit plans into investments in exchange for kickbacks, which resulted in more than $1 million in unlawful payments.  Charges remain pending against two of ESPOSITO’s co-defendants, Steven Arena and Frank Giovinco, with trial scheduled for June 17, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Victor Marrero.  The charges in the Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ESPOSITO, 51, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit racketeering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.  The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.  ESPOSITO’s sentencing is scheduled for July 10, 2019, before Judge Marrero.

Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General and Office of Labor-Management Standards, the NYPD, and the Special Agents of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

Attorney General James Announces Convictions Of Major Narcotics Distributors In “Operation Candy Crush”

AG’s Prosecution Strikes Major Blow To The Illegal Narcotics Trafficking Trade Plaguing  Hudson Valley, Other New York Neighborhoods

“Operation Candy Crush” Is Latest In AG’s SURGE Initiative To Crack Down On Opioid Traffickers In Suburban And Upstate New York; To Date, 357 Alleged Traffickers Taken Off Street Through SURGE

  Attorney General Letitia James announced the guilty pleas of twelve defendants for their roles as members of a large prescription pill trafficking ring operating in the Hudson Valley, that sold thousands of prescription pills including oxycodone, amphetamine, diazepam, clonazepam, and buprenorphine pills to dozens of customers on a daily basis.  As a result of their pleas, several of the defendants will be sentenced to state prison sentences. The nine-month investigation was led by the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF), in partnership with the New York State Police (NYSP) and relied on hundreds of hours of physical surveillance and wiretapping, hidden cameras, GPS devices, undercover agents, and cooperating witnesses. 

The Attorney General’s investigation – dubbed “Operation Candy Crush” due to the defendants’ reference to prescription pills as “candy” and “skittles,” among other coded terminology – marks the latest in the Attorney General’s SURGE Initiative (Suburban and Upstate Response to the Growing Epidemic) to root out New York’s growing – and often violent – heroin, opioid, and narcotics trafficking networks.  Since launching in 2017, SURGE has taken 372 alleged traffickers off the streets.

“The narcotics trafficking trade has long ravaged communities and ruined the lives of New Yorkers throughout our state,” said Attorney General Letitia James. “My office is committed to continuing our partnerships with law enforcement entities in an effort to stop the flow of opioids into our communities and prosecute drug traffickers to the fullest extent of the law.”

“By dismantling this prescription drug trafficking ring, law enforcement saved lives. I commend the hard work of the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force and our members, which lead to the guilty pleas and ultimately dealt a major blow to the drug trade in the Hudson Valley,” said Acting New York State Police Superintendent Keith M. Corlett. “These pharmaceuticals, when not taken under the supervision of a doctor, can be highly addictive, even deadly, and destroy lives. We will continue this fight with our law enforcement partners to keep drugs off our streets and work to prevent prescription drug abuse.”

The ring’s main prescription pill distributor, Samantha Vantassell, of Poughkeepsie, NY, pled guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree (a class A-II felony) and Attempted Conspiracy in the Second Degree (a class C felony).  She will be sentenced to 7 years in prison followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.  During her guilty plea, Vantassell admitted to purchasing and reselling prescription pills, such as oxycodone, amphetamine, and buprenorphine, from other co-conspirators including Timothy Cherry.  Samantha Vantassell further admitted that she then supplied those prescription pills to her customers, for further redistribution. Cherry pled guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Attempted Conspiracy in the Second Degree and will be sentenced to five years in prison followed by two years of post-release supervision.

Under a separate indictment, Vantassell also pled guilty to Making a Terroristic Threat (a class D violent felony).  During her guilty plea, Vantassell admitted to creating an Instagram account impersonating a student at Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park, New York.  Under that invented account, Vantassell admitted to posting a photo of the student holding what appeared to be an assault weapon, with the caption that included the statement “I’m feeling like shooting roosevelt school up.”  As part of her plea, Vantassell admitted knowing her fictitious post would cause the imminent fear among the public and law enforcement that a school shooting could be carried out.

During their guilty pleas, the defendants admitted their roles as purchasers and distributors of large amounts of prescription pills – including large volumes of oxycodone – which were obtained through legitimate prescriptions and then sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.  For example, as part of his guilty plea, Arthur Volgarino admitted to obtaining large quantities of 30 milligram oxycodone pills from his prescription, and then selling the full amount of the prescription to Kimberly Bevan and Mark Thomas for resale to other individuals throughout Dutchess County.  Bevan and Volgarino each pled guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree and Conspiracy in the Second Degree, and each will be sentenced to four years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.  As part of his guilty plea, Mark Thomas admitted to purchasing prescription pills, such as oxycodone, diazepam, and clonazepam, from other individuals including John Loverro, and reselling those pills to other individuals for further distribution.  Mark Thomas pled guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Conspiracy in the Second Degree and will be sentenced to five years in prison followed by two years of post-release supervision.

Vantassell pled guilty before Acting Dutchess County Court Judge Michael Hayes.  All remaining defendants pled guilty before Dutchess County Court Judge Peter Forman.

Attorney General James Launches Investigation Into Notorious New York Landlords For Real Estate Fraud

The Edelstein Family Has Been The Subject Of Multiple Enforcement Actions By The Attorney General’s Office Over The Last 30 Years  

  Attorney General Letitia James announced an investigation into Michael, Florence, and Ronald Edelstein regarding their alleged fraudulent business practices and the mismanagement of property related to Rockview Apartment Corporation, a 106-unit Manhattan cooperative of which they were collectively the sponsor. The court order requires the Edelsteins to testify and produce documents relating to their alleged actions, and prohibits them from interfering with the operations of the co-op’s independent board of directors while the investigation proceeds. 

“For decades, the Edelstein family has attempted to bend the law to suit their own needs, while taking advantage of New Yorkers in the process,” said Attorney General Letitia James. “Property owners and management companies have an obligation to be forthcoming with their residents, and my office will continue to hold these entities accountable.” 

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) initiated the investigation after receiving complaints that the Edelsteins had retained voting control over the Rockview board of directors for more than 30 years despite previous representations that they were not in control. By secretly controlling the board for decades, the Edelsteins ensured that the co-op retained their own management company and that financial decisions were made to benefit themselves, rather than independent shareholders. The Attorney General also learned that Ronald Edelstein harassed the co-op’s shareholders by intimidating those who disagree with him, monitoring residents via closed-circuit cameras, and threatening to withhold repairs from some owners. 

While a shareholder election last month voted the Edelsteins off the co-op’s board, the Attorney General has learned that the Edelsteins continue to interfere with the regular operations of the co-op. 

The Court order is pursuant to General Business Law Section 354, a provision of New York’s Martin Act that confers broad power on the Attorney General to halt fraud in the selling or offering of real estate securities. The Court order specifically directs that the Edelsteins and other respondents may not interfere with the newly-elected board of directors, that Ronald Edelstein may not disturb any resident of the co-op in the quiet enjoyment of his or her home, have any involvement in the management of the co-op, and may not take any financial action on behalf of the co-op. 

The OAG has previously issued enforcement actions against the Edelsteins, most recently in 2015, when OAG settled a lawsuit with Florence Edelstein over widespread violations of state oil spill prevention laws that govern the safe handling and storage of heating oil at residential properties.

Attorney General James On Passage Of Tenant Harassment Bill

  In response to the New York State Senate’s passage of the Attorney General's legislation to criminalize landlord harassment of rent-regulated tenants, Attorney General Letitia James released the following statement:

“For far too long, unscrupulous landlords have gotten away with subjecting rent-regulated tenants to dangerous and horrific conditions in an attempt to force them out of their homes. From exposing residents to hazardous materials, to making buildings deliberately uninhabitable, to shutting off heat and hot water, the landlords behind these serious acts of tenant harassment have been able to evade justice because the standard for proving criminal culpability has been impossibly high. Today that begins to change. This bill will go a long way in protecting our most vulnerable tenants by changing the legal standard of harassment and allowing prosecutors to finally pursue these acts that have hurt countless New Yorkers. I thank the Legislature for their partnership on this action to support tenants and ensure bad actors are held accountable.”

BRONX MAN SENTENCED TO 5 TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON FOR STEALING VEHICLES IN MULTIPLE BRONX NEIGHBORHOODS

Defendant Falsified DMV Records and Sold Cars to Scrap Yards

  Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a 42-year-old man has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to stealing three vehicles from various neighborhoods in the Bronx.

 District Attorney Clark said, “The defendant committed these crimes within one week of completing a prison sentence for auto theft. These crimes affect residents who spend hard-earned money on their cars and need their vehicles to get to work or transport their families.”

 District Attorney Clark said the defendant, Reynaldo Nazario, 42, of 3405 Putnam Place, was sentenced today to 5 to 10 years in prison by Bronx Supreme Court Justice Steven Hornstein. Nazario pleaded guilty to three counts of third-degree Grand Larceny on March 8, 2019.

 According to the investigation, between March 13, 2018 and May 22, 2018, Nazario allegedly stole 14 older-model Hondas and Civic vehicles from within the confines of the 46th , 52nd, 45th, 50th and 44th Precincts. The defendant falsely filled out MV-35 DMV forms-- which are intended for use by an owner selling a vehicle without a title-- and sold the cars to scrap yards. He collected $3,500 after selling the vehicles for $250 each.

 District Attorney Clark also thanked retired NYPD Detective Manny Rossi and Detective Ricky Quinones of the Bronx Auto Crime Squad, and NYPD Police Officer Mark Preira of the 52nd Precinct.

BRONX MAN SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS IN PRISON FOR FATALLY SHOOTING MAN DURING ROBBERY; SLASHING NYC DOC OFFICER WHILE IN RIKERS ISLAND

  Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a Bronx man has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for fatally shooting a 40-year-old man in 2016, and for a separate case involving an assault on a Department of Correction Officer on Rikers Island in 2018. 

 District Attorney Clark said, “The defendant shot and killed the victim, who leaves behind a 6-year-old-daughter. The defendant continued to commit violence while he was held on Rikers Island by slashing a Department of Correction Officer who was trying to protect him during a fight among prisoners.” 

 District Attorney Clark said the defendant, Elijah Moody, 24, of 1595 Odell Street, was sentenced today by Bronx Supreme Court Justice James McCarty to 21 years in prison and five years post-release supervision for first-degree Manslaughter. He was sentenced to three and a half years in prison and three years post-release supervision for Attempted Assault in the first-degree. Both sentences will run concurrently. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charges on January 8, 2019 before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Barry E. Warhit.

 According to the investigation, on August 3, 2016, in front of 2214 Glebe Avenue, the defendant shot Vivian Connell, 40, causing his death. Prior to the shooting, the victim had gone to buy a money order to pay his rent, but was unable to purchase it because he did not have identification. Connell then went to a bodega. Moody, in concert with other defendants, followed Connell and pulled a gun on him. The victim ran away and was shot in the back. As he lay wounded, Moody and his accomplices stole Connell’s rent money from his pockets. Connell was taken to Jacobi Medical Center and died shortly after. Moody was arrested several days later.

  The cases against the other defendants are still pending.

  According to the investigation, on July 13, 2018, while detained at the Anna M. Kross Center on Rikers Island, Moody slashed a Department of Correction Officer on the left side of his face with a sharp object. The victim was trying to remove Moody from the area after a fight broke out among prisoners, to keep him safe.

 District Attorney Clark thanked NYPD Detective Jose Ortiz of the 45th Precinct, Bronx Homicide Detectives Earnest Dorvil and Christine Reyes, and Investigators Scott Frank and Anthony Marano of DOC Correction Intelligence for their assistance in the investigation.

MAYOR DE BLASIO SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO END CITY RELIANCE ON SINGLE-USE PLASTIC

Executive order directs city agencies to end purchasing single-use plastic foodware and replace it with compostable or recyclable alternatives; also directs them to keep a small supply of plastic items available upon request for people who need them

  Mayor de Blasio signed an executive order today that will end the direct City purchase of unnecessary single-use plastics in favor of compostable or recyclable alternatives. New York City purchases at least 1.1 million pounds of single-use plastic foodware every year, which includes plastic straws, cutlery, plates, bowls, cups, and trays. This Executive Order will reduce New York City’s carbon emissions by approximately 500 tons per year, decrease plastic pollution, and reduce risks to wildlife. The City estimates this EO will reduce the purchase of single-use plastics by city agencies by 95%, and will begin implementation by the end of the year.

The Administration recognizes that certain single-use plastic items including plastic straws are a continued necessity for some people—including New Yorkers with disabilities—who cannot use currently available alternative products and affirms the ability of all individuals to receive single-use plastic items without question or cost upon request. Under this executive order, a sufficient supply of single-use plastic foodware will continue to be made available for anyone who requests such items and maintained for other purposes including emergency preparedness and medical uses.

“Big Oil has been pushing single use plastics for too long – and it stops here,” said Mayor de Blasio. “They litter our beaches and parks, jam our recycling machines, and contribute to climate change. Our actions today will help us build a fairer city for all New Yorkers.”

As a result of the executive order, no new contracts will be signed for single-use plastic foodware other than to maintain a sufficient supply of certain items to be provided upon request. All relevant agencies are directed to begin reducing their use of single-use plastic immediately and must also prepare a reduction plan within 120 days. Full implementation of these reduction plans is targeted for the end of the year. Sustainability and accessibility are not mutually exclusive and this executive order is a model for other municipalities that are working to create an environmentally conscious plan that meets the needs of everyone.

Mayor de Blasio also announced today his support for pending City Council legislation to reduce the single-use plastic foodware in private establishments, and will work with the Council to ensure the legislation includes appropriate accommodations for individuals who cannot use non-plastic alternatives in a similar manner to this executive order.

Single-use plastic products, which are designed to be used once and then thrown away, are a pervasive threat to our neighborhoods, waterways, and climate. Across New York City, approximately 36 million pounds of single use plastic foodware is collected from our residential waste stream. Tens of millions more pounds are collected from commercial establishments. Discarded plastics also get discarded as litter and washed into waterways, impacting water quality and harming plant and animal life in New York City’s ecosystems. Reducing single-use plastic use, while simultaneously maintaining a sufficient supply of certain single-use plastic items since some people cannot use alternative products, will lessen the City’s reliance on petroleum-based products in a way that takes the needs of all New Yorkers into account.

Reducing the use of petroleum-based products in an inclusive way will help New York City meet its goal of reducing carbon emissions at least 80 percent by 2050. Over 99 percent of plastics derive from fossil fuels and six percent of the global oil market is used to create plastic products. For each ounce of polyethylene produced – the plastic most common for single-use plastics – one ounce of carbon dioxide is emitted. Carbon emissions are the leading cause of climate change, which is causing higher temperatures, more frequent and severe extreme weather events, and sea-level rise, which threatens New York City’s 520 miles of coastline.

This executive order builds on previous progress by the de Blasio administration to protect New York City from the damage done by petroleum-based products and the oil industry that is responsible for them. On January 1, 2019, the City implemented a ban on single-use foam products, such as cups, plates, trays, clamshell containers, or polystyrene loose fill packaging—also known as “packing peanuts.”

The City is also divesting its pension funds from fossil fuel reserve owners, has filed a lawsuit seeking damages from five fossil fuel companies for the billions of dollars that will be spent to protect New Yorkers from the effects of climate change, and has set a goal of doubling its pension fund investments in climate change solutions to $4 billion by 2021. This increased investment will represent two percent of the City’s $195 billion pension portfolio.

“Let’s call single-use plastic what it is: pollution,” said Mark Chambers, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability. “We need to leave theses harmful plastics behind, and reducing the City’s use of plastic foodware is a huge step in that direction.”

“New York City is doing everything it can to end our reliance on fossil fuels and that means tackling the pervasive problem of single-use plastics,” said Daniel A. Zarrilli, NYC’s Chief Climate Policy Advisor and OneNYC Director. “Today’s Executive Order will end the unnecessary use of single-use plastic foodware in City government operations by setting smart, inclusive standards that respect the needs of people with disabilities.”

“New York City is proud to lead the way in striking a balance between sustainability and accessibility,” said Commissioner Victor Calise of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities. “The Mayor’s Executive Order will significantly reduce plastic foodware purchased using City funds, while simultaneously ensuring that the needs of people with disabilities and others who cannot use alternative products are also at the forefront. MOPD is proud to work with our agency partners to reduce environmental waste in an inclusive way that takes the needs of all New Yorkers—including those with disabilities —into account.”

"Environmental protection is essential at every level- from global agreements, to national green emissions standards and green energy plans, to an individual's actions and choices. Following the statewide plastic bag ban and the citywide foam ban, this effort is another important step in reducing waste and negative environmental impact in any way we can," said Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.

Wave Hill events April 25‒May 2: Arbor Weekend!

Thu, April 25

Garden Highlights Walk

Join a Wave Hill Garden Guide  for a public tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free with admission to the grounds.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 1PM

Fri, Sat, Sun, April 26, 27, 28

Arbor Weekend

Celebrate the trees in our garden, with walks, art-making, wellness, cooking and kid-friendly activities all weekend.

Fri, April 26

Garden Walk: Notable Trees of Wave Hill

Wave Hill’s landscape includes magnificent old trees, rare species and native beauties. Wander through the gardens on this special walk with Senior Director of Horticulture Louis Bauer to see some of his favorites from the living collection. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 1PM

Sat, April 27

Family Art Project: Tree Ring Mandalas

Each year, a tree produces a new ring of visible growth, marking its life history. In a tree ring, you can find information that the tree has carried about its own personal growth, and the changes in its ecosystem. Count the years of your own life to create your own unique mandala that speaks to your growth and the growth of the community around you. Free, and admission to the grounds is free until noon. Arbor Weekend event.

Wave Hill House, 10AM–1PM

Sat, April 27

In The Shop: Leaf-inspired Pottery, Maple Syrups Galore!

Instore artisan Kerry Goldberg‘s stunning pottery is handcrafted in upstate New York using—and inspired by—leaves. Plus, enjoy 20% off all the delicious maple syrups in stock in The Shop this spring!Arbor Weekend event.

Perkins Visitor Center, 10AM–4:30PM

Sat, April 27

Trees HQ

Stump the educators! Look at tree silhouettes, shapes and sizes, see what trees look like on the inside using “tree cookies.” Learn how to identify common trees and leave no question unanswered. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

On the grounds, 11AM–3PM

Sat, April 27

Junior Arborist Station

Kids can don harnesses and hardhats and ascend into the canopy of our old black cherry tree to get a birds-eye view of Wave Hill. Arborists from Almstead Tree, Shrub & Lawn Care are on hand to assist budding arborists and answer questions about the trees at Wave Hill. Ages five and older welcome with an adult. Arbor Weekend event. This program, free with admission to the grounds, is generously sponsored by Almstead Tree, Shrub & Lawn Care.

On the grounds, 11AM–3PM

Sat, April 27

Wellness: Spritz Station—The Healing Power of Pine

Stop by our spritz station to sample some exhilarating tree scents. Learn about the medicinal qualities of Wave Hill’s trees and mix your own herbal, pine-scented spritz to soothe your skin, refresh your linens and enhance the ambience of your home. Ages eight and older welcome with an adult. Free with admission to the grounds, with a $10 materials fee. Arbor Weekend event.

On the grounds, 11AM–1PM

Sat, April 27

Garden Walk: Trees and the Designed Landscape

Trees are integral to landscape design, from defining garden spaces to softening architecture and acting as focal points. Take a stroll with Director of Public Programs Laurel Rimmer to see how trees enhance the design of Wave Hill’s gardens. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 1PM

Sat, April 27

Family Walk: Totally Trees

Wave Hill boasts a collection of extraordinary, stately and old trees. Discover how trees grow by looking at a tree’s parts and the role each part plays in a tree’s life cycle. With trees as your inspiration, embark on an adventure across the grounds with an environmental educator. Ages six and older welcome with an adult. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Meet at Wave Hill House, 1PM

Sat, April 27

Gallery Tour

Tour Glyndor Gallery with Wave Hill’s Curatorial Fellow or Gallery Greeter to get an insider’s view of current exhibitions. Here We Land features three, former Winter Workspace artists Camille Hoffman,Maria Hupfield and Sara Jimenez who return explore narratives about contested space that draw on personal and cultural touch points in their immersive installations. Rachel Sydlowski fills the Sunroom Project Space walls with complex, screen-print collages of flora and fauna, architectural details and decorative motifs from Wave Hill, Inwood Hill Park and other surrounding green spaces. Free with admission to the grounds.

Glyndor Gallery, 2PM

Sun, April 28

Family Art Project: Tree Ring Mandalas

Each year, a tree produces a new ring of visible growth, marking its life history. In a tree ring, you can find information that the tree has carried about its own personal growth, and the changes in its ecosystem. Count the years of your own life to create your own unique mandala that speaks to your growth and the growth of the community around you. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Wave Hill House, 10AM–1PM

Sun, April 28

In The Shop: Maple Syrups Galore!

Enjoy 20% off all the delicious maple syrups in stock in The Shop this spring! Arbor Weekend event.

Perkins Visitor Center, 10AM–4:30PM

Sun, April 28

Wellness: Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, deepens relationships to the natural world. Boost your immune system and cardiovascular strength, reduce stress and improve cognitive functioning, with Gerti Schoen, a certified forest therapist, as your guide through Wave Hill’s woodland trails. Limited space, please register and arrive early to secure your place. Free with admission to the grounds. Adults only, please. Arbor Weekend event.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 10AM–NOON

Sun, April 28

Family Walk: Totally Trees

Wave Hill boasts a collection of extraordinary, stately and old trees. Discover how trees grow by looking at a tree’s parts and the role each part plays in a tree’s life cycle. With trees as your inspiration, embark on an adventure across the grounds with an environmental educator. Ages six and older welcome with an adult. Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Meet at Wave Hill House, 1PM

Sun, April 28

Garden Highlights Walk

Join a Wave Hill Garden Guide  for a public tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free with admission to the grounds.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 2PM

Sun, April 28

Cooking Demo: Culinary Conifers

Versatile conifers enhance our landscape year-round, and provide flavorful accents for both sweet and savory dishes. With the Conifer Slope as a backdrop, Horticultural Interpreter Charles Day and a chef from Great Performances reveal the origin and history of some of our edible conifers. Sample delicious, coniferous recipes featuring juniper berries and pine nuts. Appropriate for ages 10 and older.Free with admission to the grounds. Arbor Weekend event.

Wave Hill House, 3PM

Mon, April 29

Closed to the public.

Tue, April 30

Gallery Tour

Tour Glyndor Gallery with Wave Hill’s Curatorial Fellow or Gallery Greeter to get an insider’s view of current exhibitions. Here We Land features three, former Winter Workspace artists Camille Hoffman,Maria Hupfield and Sara Jimenez who return explore narratives about contested space that draw on personal and cultural touch points in their immersive installations. Rachel Sydlowski fills the Sunroom Project Space walls with complex, screen-print collages of flora and fauna, architectural details and decorative motifs from Wave Hill, Inwood Hill Park and other surrounding green spaces. Free with admission to the grounds.

Glyndor Gallery, 2PM

Wed, May 1

Garden Highlights Walk

Join a Wave Hill Garden Guide for a public tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free with admission to the grounds.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 1PM

Thu, May 2

Garden Highlights Walk

Join a Wave Hill Garden Guide for a public tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free with admission to the grounds.

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center, 1PM

A 28-acre public garden and cultural center overlooking the Hudson River  and Palisades, Wave Hill’s mission is to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens and landscape, to preserve its magnificent views, and to explore human connections to the natural world through programs in horticulture, education and the arts.

HOURS – Open all year, Tuesday through Sunday and many major holidays: 9AM–5:30PM, March 15–October 31. Closes 4:30PM, starting November 1.

ADMISSION – $10 adults, $6 students and seniors 65+, $4 children 6–18. Free Saturday and Tuesday mornings until noon. Free to Wave Hill Members and children under 6.

PROGRAM FEES – Programs are free with admission to the grounds unless otherwise noted.

Visitors to Wave Hill can take advantage of Metro-North’s one-day getaway offer. Purchase a discount round-trip rail far and discount admission to the gardens. More at http://mta.info/mnr/html/getaways/outbound_wavehill.htm

DIRECTIONS – Getting here is easy! Located only 30 minutes from midtown Manhattan, Wave Hill’s free shuttle van transports you to and from our front gate and Metro-North’s Riverdale station, as well as the W. 242nd Street stop on the #1 subway line. Limited onsite parking is available for $8 per vehicle. Free offsite parking is available nearby with continuous, complimentary shuttle service to and from the offsite lot and our front gate. Complete directions and shuttle bus schedule at www.wavehill.org/visit/.

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at www.wavehill.org.