Governor Cuomo Announces New Record-high Number of COVID-19 Tests Reported to New York State

 

110,444 Test Results Reported to New York State Yesterday

0.89 of Yesterday's COVID-19 Tests were Positive

2 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday

SLA and State Police Task Force Visits 1,434 Establishments; Observes 6 Establishments Not in Compliance

Confirms 986 Additional Coronavirus Cases in New York State - Bringing Statewide Total to 449,038; New Cases in 49 Counties

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a new record-high number of test results — 110,444 — were reported to New York State yesterday. Yesterday, 0.89 of test results reported to New York State were positive. The number of new cases, percentage of tests that were positive and many other helpful data points are always available at forward.ny.gov. 

"When we first started this journey a few months ago, we only had the capacity to do a few hundred tests per day - we have now reached a new record with over 110,000 tests reported to the State in one day," Governor Cuomo said. "Despite testing more than most other states, our infection rate remains below one percent. But this pandemic is not over. We must protect our progress, and it's going to take all of us to keep up our hard work to do so. Everyone must continue to wash their hands, wear their masks, remain socially distant and above all, stay New York Tough."

Yesterday, the State Liquor Authority and State Police Task Force visited 1,434 establishments in New York City and Long Island and observed 6 establishments that were not in compliance with state requirements. A county breakdown of yesterday's observed violations is below:

• Brooklyn - 1
• Suffolk - 5

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Patient Hospitalization - 467 (-11)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 61
• Hospital Counties - 31
• Number ICU - 144 (+3)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 60 (-2)
• Total Discharges - 76,101 (+65
• Deaths - 2
• Total Deaths - 25,425

Governor Cuomo Announces New York State Will Honor the Life and Legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg With Statue in Brooklyn

 

Governor Cuomo will Appoint a Commission to Select an Artist and Oversee the Location Selection Process

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State will honor the life and legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg with a statue in Brooklyn, her birthplace. The Governor will appoint a commission to select an artist and undergo a location selection process.

"Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg selflessly pursued truth and justice in a world of division, giving voice to the voiceless and uplifting those who were pushed aside by forces of hate and indifference. As a lawyer, jurist, and professor, she redefined gender equity and civil rights and ensured America lived up to her founding ideals — she was a monumental figure of equality, and we can all agree that she deserves a monument in her honor," Governor Cuomo said. "She persevered despite several bouts of cancer and was present every single day to participate in the strengthening and safeguarding of our democracy. Her 27 years on the court reshaped our understanding of the basic tenets of equality and justice. While the family of New York mourns Justice Ginsburg's death, we remember proudly that she started her incredible journey right here in Brooklyn. Her legacy will live on in the progress she created for our society, and this statue will serve as a physical reminder of her many contributions to the America we know today and as an inspiration for those who will continue to build on her immense body of work for generations to come."

The commission will be appointed in the coming days and, when formed, will provide recommendations to the Governor pertaining to the design, location and installation of the new memorial. The commission will initiate broad outreach to the art community, including contacting art institutions and organizations as well as direct artist outreach. 

Councilman Mark Gjonaj Book Bag Giveaway at the Pelham Parkway Houses

 

Friday Councilman Mark Gjonaj stopped by the Pelham Parkway Houses to give out close to two-hundred book bags with school supplies inside them. The resident tenant leader Oscar Grant and others helped Councilman Gjonaj hand out the book bags.

Above - Councilman Gjonaj with a mother and her two children with their new book bags, and some face masks the councilman was also handing out.

Below - Councilman Gjonaj with Pelham Parkway Houses tenant leader Oscar Grant, and CB 11 member Nichole Johnson.

This young man opens his new book bag to show what was inside it.

Lev Parnas And David Correia Charged With Conspiring To Defraud Investors In Their Fraud Insurance Company “Fraud Guarantee”

 

Defendants Also Charged with Additional Campaign Finance Crimes in the Superseding Indictment

  Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced that LEV PARNAS and DAVID CORREIA were charged in a Superseding Indictment with conspiring to commit wire fraud in connection with their efforts to raise funds ostensibly for their business, “Fraud Guarantee.”  The Superseding Indictment also includes additional campaign finance charges against the defendants.

In October 2019, PARNAS, CORREIA, IGOR FRUMAN, and ANDREY KUKUSHKIN were charged in a four-count indictment alleging that each of the defendants conspired to violate the ban on political donations and contributions by foreign nationals.  In addition, PARNAS and FRUMAN were charged with conspiring to make contributions in connection with federal elections in the names of others, and with making false statements to and falsifying records to obstruct the administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the Federal Election Commission (“FEC”).

The Superseding Indictment returned today – in addition to charging PARNAS and CORREIA with conspiracy to commit wire fraud – charges CORREIA with making false statements to and falsifying records to obstruct the administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the FEC; charges PARNAS, FRUMAN, and CORREIA with soliciting a foreign national to make donations and contributions in connection with federal and state elections; and charges PARNAS, FRUMAN, and KUKUSHKIN with aiding and abetting the making of donations and contributions by a foreign national in connection with federal and state elections.

The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken in the Southern District of New York.  Trial is currently scheduled for February 1, 2021.

Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged, Lev Parnas and David Correia conspired in a fraud using a company called ‘Fraud Guarantee’ that purported to insure investors against corporate fraud while in fact, as alleged, they misled investors as to what would be done with their money.  ‘Fraud Guarantee’ takes on a different meaning in light of today’s allegations that the company was a vehicle for committing fraud, not insuring against it.  Parnas, Correia, Igor Fruman, and Andrey Kukushkin are also charged with additional violations of the laws prohibiting foreign nationals from donating or contributing to federal or state election campaigns.  This Office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting those whose alleged criminal conduct threatens to undermine the integrity of our political process.”

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “We couldn't say it better ourselves – the behavior alleged today is indeed fraudulent – guaranteed.  The FBI and the American public expect that it will be our fellow citizens whose voices determine the outcome of our Nation's elections, not deliberately corrupt behavior, or foreign influence disguised as legitimate activity.  The FBI is determined to disrupt this type of behavior, and our investigation is ongoing.”

According to the Superseding Indictment[1] filed in Manhattan federal court:

Between in or about late 2012 and in or about mid-2019, PARNAS and CORREIA conspired to defraud multiple victims by inducing them to invest in their company, “Fraud Guarantee,” based on materially false and misleading representations.  Among other things, PARNAS and CORREIA falsely claimed that the investors’ funds would be used solely for legitimate business expenses of Fraud Guarantee, when in fact the funds were largely withdrawn as cash, transferred to personal accounts, and used for various apparently personal expenditures.  PARNAS and CORREIA also made materially false representations concerning, among other things, how much money PARNAS had contributed to the company and how much money the company had raised overall.  At least seven victims invested in Fraud Guarantee based at least in part on PARNAS’s and CORREIA’s false and misleading representations, with each victim being fraudulently induced to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars, for a total of more than $2 million.

The scheme started in or about late 2012, when PARNAS and CORREIA established Fraud Guarantee.  Ironically, they pitched Fraud Guarantee to potential investors as a company that would provide services to protect investors from fraud.  In particular, PARNAS and CORREIA claimed that Fraud Guarantee would offer an insurance product that would allow policyholders to recoup their losses in the event they lost money due to fraudulent conduct.  Thus, for example, if an investor invested in “Company XYZ” and purchased a Fraud Guarantee policy, then in the event that the investor lost the value of the investment due to a criminal fraud at Company XYZ, Fraud Guarantee would enable the investor to recoup the investor’s losses.  However, despite certain efforts by PARNAS and CORREIA to launch Fraud Guarantee and bring its products to market, the company never became operational.

PARNAS and CORREIA induced multiple victims to invest in Fraud Guarantee by claiming, among other things, that they were raising funds to facilitate the company’s development, that all of the money would be used for legitimate business expenses, and that PARNAS and CORREIA were not taking salaries.  PARNAS and CORREIA even provided one victim with a contract providing that his funds would be used “to finance the development, promotion, and initial operation of an investment protection business” and would be “fully reserved and committed” for such purposes.  In fact, while a portion of the victims’ funds was used for Fraud Guarantee business expenses, the majority was not.  Rather, the funds were largely withdrawn as cash, transferred to accounts in the name of PARNAS or CORREIA or their family members, or spent on various apparently personal expenditures, including hundreds of thousands of dollars in rent for PARNAS’s personal residence and tens of thousands of dollars at luxury car leasing companies.  PARNAS and CORREIA also used certain victim money to fund political donations.

PARNAS and CORREIA also induced certain victims to invest in Fraud Guarantee by misrepresenting, among other things, the amount of money PARNAS personally contributed to the company, and the amount raised overall.  For example, PARNAS and CORREIA provided at least one victim with a table reflecting that PARNAS’s “capital account” was as high as $1.1 million; CORREIA told another victim via email that “[t]here was ‘significant’ investment from all parties in order to take ownership [in Fraud Guarantee] . . . equated to several millions of dollars invested”; and CORREIA told another victim – during a phone call that the victim recorded without CORREIA’s knowledge – that “[m]illions . . . $4 or $5 million probably” had been invested overall in Fraud Guarantee.  These representations were false and misleading because the company had not only raised far less money than they claimed, but also the funds they had raised had largely been withdrawn as cash, transferred to personal accounts, and spent on various apparently personal expenditures, rather than being used solely for legitimate business expenses.

PARNAS, 48, FRUMAN, 54, CORREIA, 45, and KUKUSHKIN, 47, are each charged with one count of conspiring to violate the ban on donations and contributions in connection with federal and state elections by foreign nationals, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  PARNAS and FRUMAN are also charged with one count of conspiring to make contributions in connection with federal elections in the names of others, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  PARNAS, FRUMAN, and CORREIA are each charged with one count of making false statements, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of falsifying records to obstruct the administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the FEC, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.  PARNAS, FRUMAN, and CORREIA are each charged with one count of soliciting a foreign national to make donations and contributions in connection with federal and state elections, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and PARNAS, FRUMAN, and KUKUSHKIN are each charged with one count of aiding and abetting the making of donations and contributions by a foreign national in connection with federal and state elections, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  PARNAS and CORREIA are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants would be determined by the judge.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding work of the FBI. 

The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations.  The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment, and the description of the Superseding Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.

Founder And CEO Of Cyberfraud Prevention Company Arrested And Charged With Securities Fraud Scheme

Adam Rogas Allegedly Raised $123 Million from Investors Using Financial Statements that Showed Tens of Millions of Dollars of Revenue and Assets that Did Not Exist 

  Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that ADAM ROGAS, the co-founder and former CEO, CFO, and member of the board of directors of Las Vegas-based cyberfraud prevention company NS8, Inc. (“NS8”), was charged in a Complaint in Manhattan federal court with securities fraud, fraud in the offer and sale of securities, and wire fraud.  ROGAS used fraudulent financial data to obtain over $123 million in financing for NS8, of which he personally obtained approximately $17.5 million.  ROGAS was arrested today in the District of Nevada and is expected to be presented before a judge there tomorrow.

Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged, Adam Rogas was the proverbial fox guarding the henhouse.  While raising over $100 million from investors for his fraud prevention company, Rogas himself allegedly was engaging in a brazen fraud.  Today’s arrest of Rogas ensures that he will be held accountable for his alleged scheme.”

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “It seems ironic that the co-founder of a company designed to prevent online fraud would engage in fraudulent activity himself, but today that’s exactly what we allege Adam Rogas did. Rogas allegedly raised millions of dollars from investors based on fictitious financial affirmations, and in the end, walked away with nearly $17.5 million worth of that money. Within our complex financial crimes branch, securities fraud cases remain among our top priorities. We’ve seen far too many examples of unscrupulous actors engaging in this type of criminal activity, and we continue to work diligently to weed out this behavior whenever and wherever we find it.”

As alleged in the Complaint unsealed today in Manhattan federal court: 

    

ADAM ROGAS was a co-founder of NS8, and served as its CEO, CFO, and a member of its board of directors.  ROGAS was also primarily responsible for the company’s fundraising activities.  NS8, based in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a cyberfraud prevention company that developed and sold electronic tools to help online vendors assess the fraud risks of customer transactions.  In the fall of 2019 and the spring of 2020, NS8 engaged in fundraising rounds through which it issued Series A Preferred Shares and obtained approximately $123 million in investor funds.

ROGAS maintained control over a bank account into which NS8 received revenue from its customers, and periodically provided monthly statements from that account to NS8’s finance department so that NS8’s financial statements could be created.  ROGAS also maintained control over spreadsheets that purportedly tracked customer revenue, which were also used to generate NS8’s financial statements.

ROGAS altered the bank statements before providing them to NS8’s finance department to show tens of millions of dollars in both customer revenue and bank balances that did not exist.  In the period from January 2019 through February 2020, between at least approximately 40% and 95% of the purported total assets on NS8’s balance sheet were fictitious.  In that same period, the bank statements that ROGAS altered reflected over $40 million in fictitious revenue.

ROGAS used these materially misleading financial statements to raise approximately $123 million from investors in the fall of 2019 and the spring of 2020.  During the fundraising process, ROGAS also provided the falsified bank records he had created to auditors who were conducting due diligence on behalf of potential investors.  After these fundraising rounds concluded, NS8 conducted a tender offer with the funds raised from investors, and ROGAS received $17.5 million in proceeds from that tender offer, personally and through a company he controlled.

ROGAS, 43, of Las Vegas, Nevada, is charged with one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, one count of fraud in the offer or sale of securities, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.  The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Ms. Strauss praised the work of the FBI.  Ms. Strauss further thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission for its cooperation and assistance in this investigation.      

The allegations contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Governor Cuomo Announces 33 Additional Bar and Restaurants' Liquor Licenses Suspended for Egregious Violations of Coronavirus-Related Regulations, Launches Enforcement Effort Focused On College Area Bars

 

201 Businesses' Liquor Licenses Have Been Suspended During Public Health Emergency

Multi-Agency Task Force Conducted Over 4,500 Compliance Checks This Week, Observing 14 Additional Violations in New York City and on Long Island

1,084 Charges Have Been Filed and Processed To Date; Updated List of Suspensions and Charges Available HERE

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the state has suspended liquor licenses for 33 additional bars and restaurants in New York State after finding egregious violations of pandemic-related Executive Orders, bringing the total number of liquor licenses suspended during the coronavirus pandemic to 201. Between Monday and Thursday nights, the state's multi-agency task force, led by the State Police and State Liquor Authority, conducted 4,645 compliance checks, documenting violations at 14 establishments -- proof positive that the state's enhanced enforcement activities are driving down the number of establishments flouting the state's pandemic-related health and safety rules. Businesses found in violation of COVID-19 regulations face fines up to $10,000 per violation, while egregious violations can result in the immediate suspension of a bar or restaurant's liquor license. 

With the return of college students for the fall semester, Governor Cuomo has directed the State Liquor Authority to increase efforts to ensure bars and restaurants in areas where college students gather are abiding by all public health measures. To date, this enforcement effort has found egregious violations in Cortland, Dutchess, Madison, Monroe, Oswego and Schenectady counties -- with violation leading to the summary suspension of the establishment's license. With significant outbreaks linked to colleges and universities across the nation, these stepped-up efforts will help keep our students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding communities safe. 

"New Yorkers have worked together to stop the spread of coronavirus -- but with our infection rate hovering around 1 percent and the threat of a second wave on the horizon, we must double down on the successful strategies that have helped us over the last six months," Governor Cuomo said. "While it is clear the increased enforcement by our task force has made an impact, we cannot let ourselves become complacent or allow those coming from other states to import indifference for these critical public health rules. This action should serve as a reminder to the small number of establishments who openly flout the rules that they are putting all New Yorkers at risk, and they will be held accountable."

State Liquor Authority Chair Vincent Bradley said, "Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, our task force has made a real impact and we are seeing better compliance. We will continue to crack down on the small number of businesses that continue to operate in violation of the law and common sense -- risking both New Yorkers' health and our continued progress."

The 33 establishments issued emergency orders of summary suspension from the State Liquor Authority Board are located in New York City, Long Island, Mid-Hudson, Finger Lakes, Capital Region and Central New York. A county breakdown is below:

In New York City:

• Bronx - 1
• Brooklyn - 2
• Manhattan - 6
• Queens - 12
• Richmond - 1

Outside of New York City:

• Albany - 1
• Cortland - 1
• Dutchess - 1
• Madison - 1
• Monroe - 1
• Nassau - 1
• Schenectady - 1
• Suffolk - 3
• Westchester - 1

The emergency suspensions were ordered by Chairman Bradley, Commissioner Lily Fan and Commissioner Greeley Ford at special meetings of the Full Board between August 29th and September 13th, conducted by a digitally recorded video under social distancing guidelines. Emergency Summary Suspensions are imposed when the SLA finds the continued operation of a licensed business threatens public health and safety. Suspension orders are served immediately and remain in effect indefinitely, with the maximum penalty including the permanent revocation of the license and fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Licensees subject to an emergency suspension are entitled to an expedited hearing before an SLA Administrative Law Judge.

The 33 bars and restaurants suspended are listed below, along with information on their violations and the date of their suspensions.

"Belle Harbor Yacht Club" at 533 Beach 126th Street in Queens, on August 29, 2020

On August 28th, following complaints of a large gathering, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately eighty patrons standing, drinking and congregating in a parking lot outside the premises, ignoring social distancing guidelines. Approximately twenty-five individuals were observed without facial coverings.    

"Karvouna Mezze" 241 Bowery in Manhattan, on August 29, 2020

On August 28th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed a guitar player and a singer without a facial coverings performing outside the premises. Approximately twenty patrons -- most without facial coverings -- were drinking, dancing and violating social distancing regulations.

"SoHo KTV & Bar" at 32-02 Linden Place in Queens, on September 1, 2020

On August 30th, the New York City Sheriff's Office responded to the location following complaints the bar was open and operating with patrons inside, in violation of the Governor's Executive Orders. The Sheriff's Office reported observing a group of forty to fifty patrons exiting the building from an emergency exit as officers arrived. Officers inspected the karaoke rooms inside the premises and found evidence patrons had just left, including left over food and partially-consumed bottles of alcohol. Another twenty-three patrons, along with the manager, were found by officers on the roof of the premises.    

"CJ Diamond Café" at 41-02 College Point Boulevard in Queens, on September 2, 2020

On September 1st, the New York City Sheriff's Office arrived at the location at approximately 11:30 p.m in response to a complaint of people inside the premises and observed a group of people entering the establishment. Upon entering, officers found thirty patrons inside and witnessed between seventy-five and one hundred additional patrons departing the premises through an emergency exit. Officers found two rooms inside the premises with patrons singing, drinking and several smoking -- in clear violation of the Governor's Executive Orders, which have prohibited indoors service since March 16th and the NYS Clean Indoor Air Act. 

"La Troncalena Lounge & Restaurant" at 102-10 37th Avenue in Queens, on September 2, 2020

On August 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed six patrons drinking inside, multiple employees without masks, and ten to fifteen patrons outside drinking and not socially distancing, one of which was singing karaoke, all in flagrant violation of multiple  Governor's Executive Orders including one in place since March 16, 2020. 

"Black Emperor Bar" at 197 2nd Avenue in Manhattan, on September 2, 2020

On August 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed in excess of eight patrons standing, drinking and congregating in front of the licensed premises.  Inside, investigators observed three patrons sitting and drinking at the bar and one patron standing inside with a drink in his hand, all in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020.

"Las Lagunas Deli Grocery" at 281 Saint Nicholas Avenue in Queens, on September 4, 2020

On September 2nd, NYPD officers found nine individuals inside this grocery store -- which is not permitted to serve alcohol for on-premises consumption at all -- drinking and violating social distancing regulations. Officers also discovered two illegal gambling video game devices inside the premises. 

"Taqueria Diana" at 524 9th Avenue in Manhattan, on September 4, 2020

On September 2nd, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed five patrons drinking inside the premises, in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order, which has prohibited indoors dining in New York City since March 16, 2020. The patrons were not wearing facial coverings or practicing social distancing, and both the bartender and a kitchen employee were also observed without facial coverings. The business is a repeat offender, with investigators observing two patrons inside the premises on July 28th.   

"We Go KTV" at 36-10 Union Street in Queens, on September 4, 2020

On September 4th, in response to 311 complaints of loud thumping music emanating from the premises, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force and officers with the NYPD observed six patrons in the lobby entering the premises. Upon entering the third floor of the establishment, investigators discovered a crowd estimated to be in excess of one-hundred patrons. After the patrons began rushing out the emergency exit, the inspection team required backup from the 109th Precinct, and NYPD officers subsequently arrested of two individuals for possession of ketamine and issued two criminal court summonses for "disorderly premise," including a lack of social distancing and patrons not wearing facial coverings throughout the establishment. 

"Sabor Norteno" at 102-06 43rd Avenue on Queens, on September 5, 2020

On September 4th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed over twenty-seven patrons inside the premises consuming alcohol in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020, which prohibits indoor dining in New York City.

"The Skinny Bar Lounge" at 174 Orchard Street in Manhattan, on September 5, 2020

On September 4th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed over twenty patrons without facial coverings standing directly in front of the premises, drinking without food; one employee without a facial covering; and seven patrons approximately fifty feet from the premises without facial coverings drinking alcohol. 

"Sushiva" at 615 9th Street in Manhattan, on September 5, 2020

On September 4th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed six patrons drinking and eating inside the establishment, in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020, which prohibits indoor dining in New York City. Sushiva's liquor license had just been issued three months earlier, on June 1, 2020. 

"Zurang" at 41-14 162nd Street in Queens, on September 7, 2020

On September 3rd, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately a dozen patrons dining inside the premises, in addition to another dozen in six separate, permanently constructed rooms in the rear patio, all in flagrant violation of the indoor dining restrictions in place since March 16, 2020. 

"Marco's" at 1071 Broadway in Brooklyn, on September 7, 2020

On September 4th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed thirty-seven patrons drinking without food in the rear yard of the premises, an area with a maximum occupancy of just eighteen. Investigators also observed additional patrons purchasing drinks from a walkup bar, in clear violation of the Governor's Executive Orders.

"Kochi" at 652 10th Avenue in Manhattan, on September 9, 2020

On September 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately twenty patrons directly outside the premises, standing, drinking and ignoring social distancing regulations, most without facial coverings. Investigators entered the premises and observed approximately thirty patrons and servers inside the premises, in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order prohibiting indoor dining in New York City since March 16, 2020. 

"Casa Rubio Restaurant" at 98-05 Northern Boulevard in Queens, on September 9, 2020

On September 9th, an investigator with the state's multi-agency task force and NYPD officers observed twenty-seven patrons dining inside the restaurant in violation of the indoor dining restrictions in effect since March 16, 2020. Investigators also observed at least thirty patrons dining outdoors at back-to-back tables with no social distancing and two employees without facial coverings.  Investigators also observed seven patrons without facial coverings waiting to enter the premises and a DJ set up indoors, in violation of their license. 

"Klassique Bar & Lounge" at 3813-3817 Boston Road in the Bronx, on September 9, 2020

On September 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately seventy patrons congregating outside the premises, with over half of the patrons standing and drinking near outdoor tables. Investigators also observed one patron inside the premises drinking and a member of the waitstaff without a facial covering. 

"Sunny Grocery & Discount" at 131-13 Jamaica Avenue in Queens, on September 11, 2020

On September 10th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force and NYPD officers found the grocery store -- which is not permitted to serve alcohol for on-premises consumption at all -- operating as a bar, with five patrons drinking in a back room of the premises, and an illegal, makeshift urinal set up in the backyard for patrons. NYPD officers arrested the licensee, charging him with operating an unlicensed bottle club and for selling untaxed cigarettes.

"3 in 1 Deli Grocery" at 131-11 Jamaica Avenue in Queens, on September 11, 2020

On September 10th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force and officers with the NYPD observed the premises' manager without a facial covering and two patrons drinking inside the establishment without food, in violation of the indoor service restrictions in effect since March 16, 2020. An additional seven patrons were consuming alcohol and violating social distancing regulations in an unauthorized indoor structure in the backyard. In addition, an open bottle of hard liquor, prescription medication, and cigarettes were found at the establishment, even though their license only authorizes the sale of beer. NYPD officers issued criminal court summonses to the manager for criminal diversion of prescription medication, sale of cigarettes without a license, and failure to comply with Executive Orders regarding indoor service and employees without facial coverings.  

"Blue Bar & Grill" at 30 North Broadway in Yonkers, on September 11, 2020

On September 9th, in response to numerous complaints of excessive noise and social distancing violations, the Yonkers Police Department and Yonkers Fire Department conducted a compliance check of the premises, finding a DJ playing extremely loud music with one-hundred-nineteen patrons crowded inside the bar with a maximum occupancy of just sixty-two under the Department of Health's indoor service guidelines. Officers reported a total lack of social distancing inside the bar, with numerous patrons not wearing facial coverings and mingling and drinking throughout the premises. Officers additionally noted no food was being served and found the businesses' food permit had expired.

"Joyce's Tavern" at 3823-3825 Richmond Avenue on Staten Island, on September 12, 2020

On September 11th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed a table of ten patrons inside the premises consuming beverages and another table of one eating and drinking inside -- violating  the indoor dining restrictions in effect since March 16, 2020.  

"Suenos Americano Bar Restaurant" at 35-14 & 35-16 Junction Boulevard in Queens, on September 13, 2020

On September 12th, NYPD officers responding to noise complaints after 1: found the premises and front gate closed. Upon observing a patron exit the premises from a side entrance, officers gained entry to find approximately 75 individuals being herded out of an indoor basement bar area -- operating in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020 restricting indoor dining in New York City. Officers report no food being served and employees not wearing facial coverings, while pictures reflect dozens of patrons present without facial coverings and ignoring social distancing regulations. Officers also witnessed DJ's packing up equipment even though this licensee is not permitted to have a DJ or operate as a nightclub.

"Patrizia Pizza" at 35 Broadway in Brooklyn, on September 13, 2020

On September 12th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed a group of at least 26 patrons at two tables directly outside the premises, in violation of Department of Health and SLA social distancing rules. Inside, investigators observed patrons at six tables eating and drinking, in flagrant violation of the Governors' Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020 restricting indoor dining in New York City. 

Those outside of New York City are not listed except for the one in Yonkers.

Governor Cuomo Announces DMV to Expand Online Services

 

DMV Launches Online Permit Test and Online Vehicle Registration Pilot Programs

Other Transactions Available in Person by Reservation Only

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is expanding online services, making it easier for New Yorkers to do business with the DMV from the comfort of their homes, and allowing the DMV to serve more customers in person who cannot complete their transactions online. The DMV has initiated a pilot program to offer the written learner permit tests for passenger cars (Class D) and motorcycles (Class M) online. It is also piloting a process to allow customers who reside in counties served by the state DMV to register their vehicles online.  

"As the last six months have demonstrated, we need to continue reimagining how to provide essential government services safely, securely and efficiently in the midst of this pandemic," Governor Cuomo said. "These online options will make it more convenient for New Yorkers to access the services they need, while reducing congestion in the DMV offices and helping continue our shared progress in stopping the spread of this virus." 

DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "We always strive to adapt and modernize our services to better meet the needs of our customers and to make things safer as we battle the coronavirus. Offering these transactions online is more convenient and safer for those who need to get a permit or register a vehicle, and it allows us to free up more space in our offices to serve those who cannot do their transaction remotely." 

About the Online Permit Test

Select customers who currently have a reservation for an in-office permit test will be invited to take the exam online, and following the successful launch of this pilot, the online option will become available to all permit applicants later this fall. 

The most time-consuming aspect of getting a learner permit is taking the exam. By offering the test online, New Yorkers will save significant time when they come to the DMV to finish the application process and will be able to take the test at their convenience in a familiar and safe environment. It also frees up office space, allowing the DMV to accommodate more customers in-person who cannot complete their transactions online or by mail or drop box. 

The online learner permit tests contain 50 questions and take approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Those who pass the test will receive an email with further instructions about making a reservation at a DMV office to complete the process of getting their learner permit. An appointment to complete the process takes only 5 minutes, on average.

Applicants should use this guide to make sure they have the documents and proofs of identification needed, before going to the DMV.  Applicants have two years from the time they pass the test to schedule a reservation at the DMV and complete the application process.

A parent or guardian must supervise the test for anyone 16 and 17 years old, and then must accompany the applicant to the DMV to complete the application process and certify that they performed these duties. 

The tests are available in 16 languages including: English, Spanish, Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Bosnian, Chinese, French, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Polish, and Russian.

Reservations for road tests are available across the state to all drivers who have a permit. Drivers under age 18 must wait at least six months from the date they received their learner permit to schedule a road test.  

About Online Vehicle Registration 

For the first time ever, New Yorkers who live in counties with state-run DMV offices—New York, Kings, Queens, Bronx, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Albany and Onondaga counties—can now register their vehicles online on the DMV website. This eliminates the need to visit a DMV office, making it safer and more convenient, and it allows the DMV to offer more appointments to customers needing transactions that must be completed in-person.  The DMV is working with County Clerks who operate DMV offices in the remaining 51 counties to expand the online registration service statewide.

Before registering a vehicle, the customer must get it insured. Then, they can use the simple, step-by-step online registration tool to register a vehicle online.

Step 1: Use the DMV Document Guide to determine what documents are required

Step 2: Provide basic information about the registrant and the vehicle

Step 3: Attach documents by sending DMV a picture or scanning and uploading them

Step 4: Submit

Once a customer's application is submitted, they will receive a confirmation email. DMV will contact the customer when the exact fee has been determined to process their payment by credit card. The DMV website allows a customer to estimate their registration fees. 

Once processed, the plates, registration sticker and temporary inspection sticker will be mailed to them. Once they have received their registration sticker and license plates, drivers must get their vehicles inspected.

The DMV will also provide an envelope so the customer can mail in their original paperwork. We recommend customers make a copy of their completed application and title to retain for their records. Once we receive the original documents, a new title will be mailed to the customer. 

The online registration form can be used to register the following types of vehicles:

         Cars

         Motorcycles

         Vans

         Trucks

         Trailers

         Recreational vehicles (boats, snowmobiles, and ATVs)

Other Online Services

There are also more than 60 other online transactions available. Customers can renew or replace their registration, renew their driver license, obtain a driving record (abstract), change their address, and plead or pay New York City traffic tickets and associated fees online. 

In-Person Services

In-office reservations are available for a limited number of in-person services that cannot be done online, by mail or drop box. Reservations are required for all in-person transactions. 

The DMV recommends that all customers visit the DMV website and follow these tips, before coming to an office:

• Check available services. Customers should make sure the service they want is being offered. Available services for each office are listed on the office locations webpage.

• Gather required documents. Information on what documents are needed for each transaction can be found on the DMV website at dmv.ny.gov. Anyone planning to get a permit, a license or register a car for the first time should use our online document guides that allow customers to print a checklist of the documents they need.

• Make a reservation. Appointments are required for any in-office visit. Customers can make a reservation to visit a state-run office at https://nysdmvqw.us.qmatic.cloud/naoa/index.jsp or by contacting their local DMV. To make sure transactions can be processed in the allotted reservation time and ensure social distancing, the DMV will only honor reservations for the service selected—other transactions will not be allowed.

Two Plead Guilty To Racehorse Doping Charges

 

  Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that two defendants, SCOTT ROBINSON and SARAH IZHAKI, each pled guilty today to conspiring to unlawfully distribute adulterated and misbranded drugs for the purpose of doping racehorses in connection with the two cases in which they are charged, United States v. Robinson, 20 Cr. 162 (JPO), and United States v. Izhaki, 20 Cr. 161 (MKV).  ROBINSON pled guilty before U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken, and will be sentenced by Judge Oetken on January 15, 2021.  IZHAKI pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil, and will be sentenced by Judge Vyskocil on December 2, 2020.

Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “Scott Robinson and Sarah Izhaki represent the supply side of a market of greed that continues to endanger racehorses through the sale of performance-enhancing drugs.  Each of these defendants provided the raw materials for fraud and animal abuse through the sale of unregulated and dangerous substances:  Robinson’s products were manufactured in shoddy facilities with no professional oversight of their composition; Izhaki’s products were smuggled into the country and sold from cars in supermarket parking lots.  These convictions show that our Office and our partners at the FBI are committed to the prosecution and investigation of corruption, fraud, and endangerment in the horse racing industry.”

According to the Indictments, the Superseding Information to which ROBINSON pled guilty, the Superseding Information to which IZHAKI pled guilty, and other court documents, as well as statements made in public court proceedings:

From at least in or about 2011 through at least in or about March 2020, ROBINSON conspired with others to manufacture, sell, and ship millions of dollars’ worth of adulterated and misbranded equine drugs, including performance-enhancing drugs intended to be administered to racehorses for the purpose of improving those horses’ race performance in order to win races and obtain prize money.  ROBINSON sold these drugs through several direct-to-consumer websites designed to appeal to racehorse trainers and owners, including, among others, “horseprerace.com.” 

ROBINSON contributed to the conspiracy by, among other things, sourcing chemicals used to create custom PEDs that were advertised and sold; falsely labeling, packaging, and shipping those PEDs to customers across the country, including in the Southern District of New York; and collecting, reporting, and responding to employee and customer complaints regarding the misbranded and adulterated products advertised and sold online.  Among the drugs advertised and sold during the course of the conspiracy were “blood builders,” which are used by racehorse trainers and others to increase red blood cell counts and/or the oxygenation of muscle tissue of a racehorse in order to stimulate the horse’s endurance, which enhances that horse’s performance in, and recovery from, a race, as well as customized analgesics which are used by racehorse trainers and others to deaden a horse’s nerves and block pain in order to improve a horse’s race performance.  The drugs distributed through the defendants’ websites were manufactured in non-FDA registered facilities and carried significant risks to the animals affected through the administration of those illicit PEDs.  For example, in 2016, ROBINSON received a complaint regarding the effect of his unregulated drugs on a customer’s horse: “starting bout 8 hours after I give the injection and for about 36 hours afterwards both my horses act like they are heavily sedated, can barely walk.  Could I have a bad bottle of medicine, I’m afraid to give it anymore since this has happened three times.”  Commenting on this complaint, ROBINSON wrote simply, “here is another one.”

In a separate conspiracy, from at least in or about February 2018 through at least in or about November 2019, IZHAKI conspired with others to transport, sell, and deliver, tens of thousands of dollars of erythropoietin, a “blood builder” drug intended to increase a horse’s racing performance, which had been smuggled into the country from Mexico.  This drug was covertly transported into the United States and sold by IZHAKI, who believed it would be used by racehorse trainers to illicitly improve their horses’ race performance.  IZHAKI also offered for sale amphetamines, and a substance that IZHAKI referred to as “the Devil,” which IZHAKI claimed would mask the presence of potent drugs in a human or animal’s body.

The defendants are among 27 individuals charged in a series of Indictments arising from an investigation of a widespread scheme by racehorse trainers, veterinarians, PED distributors, and others to manufacture, distribute, and receive adulterated and misbranded PEDs and to secretly administer those PEDs to racehorses competing at all levels of professional horseracing.  By evading PED prohibitions and deceiving regulators and horse racing officials, participants in these schemes sought to improve race performance and obtain prize money from racetracks, all to the detriment and risk of the health and well-being of the racehorses. 

ROBINSON, 46, of Tampa, Florida and IZHAKI, 45, of Manalapan, New Jersey, each pled guilty to one count of conspiring to unlawfully introduce and receive with the intent to redistribute for pay or otherwise adulterated and misbranded drugs in interstate commerce, and to misbrand drugs in interstate commerce.  This offense carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

Acting U.S. Attorney Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI New York Office’s Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force and its support of the Bureau’s Integrity in Sports and Gaming Initiative. Ms. Strauss also thanked the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, the New York State Police, and the New York City Police Department for their support of this investigation, and the Food and Drug Administration and Drug Enforcement Administration for their assistance and expertise.

State Senator Bailey and Assemblywoman Fernandez Book Bag and Food Giveaway

 

Thursday afternoon State Senator Jamaal Bailey and Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez gave out two-hundred book bags provided by the assemblywoman, and two-hundred boxes of assorted foods provided by the American Albanian Open Hand Association on East 204th Street in the Norwood section of the Bronx. They were joined by various community leaders such as Community Board 7 Chair Emmanuel Martinez, 80th A.D. State Committeewoman Sandra Pabon, Community Activist Sheila Sanchez, Mr. Aleksander Nilaj President AAOHA (along with several AAOHA workers, and staff members of both elected officials). There were also tables set up by two health providers giving information about their health plans, and gifts.

Above - Assemblywoman Fernandez and one of her staffers line up the book bags to be given out.

Below - A group photo as the Book bags are all given out.

Above - The line of people across East 204th Street. 

Below - The boxes of food are off loaded from the delivery truck.

Above - Assemblywoman Fernandez and State Senator Bailey hold boxes of assorted foods they gave to people waiting on line.

Below State Senator Bailey hands this box of food to this woman to take home.

Above - Community Activist Sheila Sanchez puts this box of food in this woman's wagon.

Below - A group photo of all who helped in the book bag and food giveaway. 

MAYOR DE BLASIO APPOINTS EDWARD GRAYSON ACTING SANITATION COMMISSIONER

 

 Mayor Bill de Blasio today appointed Edward Grayson as the Acting Commissioner of the City of New York Department of Sanitation (DSNY). Grayson, currently the Director of DSNY’s Bureau of Cleaning and Collection, began his DSNY career in 1999.

 

“Edward Grayson is the kind of experienced, steady hand New York’s Strongest needs to lead the department through this transitional period,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “I’m grateful for his service, and I look forward to working with him to give New Yorkers the safe, livable communities they deserve.”

 

"Edward Grayson has devoted his career to making New Yorker City a safer and cleaner place for all New Yorkers, and I am looking forward to working with him in his new role," said Deputy Mayor Laura Anglin. "I also want to thank both outgoing Commissioner Kathryn Garcia and First Deputy Commissioner Steven Costas for their years of dedicated public service. Their tireless work made this city a better place to live."

 

"When I was a kid, I always wanted to be a sanitation worker, because my dad was one,” said DSNY Acting Commissioner Edward Grayson. “Every single member of this Department is someone's family, but during these unprecedented times, we are each other's family, too, and I promise to never forget that. I want to thank Mayor de Blasio for the confidence he has placed in me, and Commissioner Garcia for the example she has set of competent, forward looking leadership and commitment to sustainability – a commitment DSNY will not abandon."

 

Edward Grayson is a 21-year veteran of the Department of Sanitation, most recently appointed four-star chief and Director of the Bureau of Cleaning and Collection in September of 2017. Acting Commissioner Grayson has held a range of positions throughout the Department. He was Operations Chief overseeing snow removal during the 2016 Jonas Blizzard, the largest snow storm in New York City history.

 

As Director of the Bureau of Cleaning and Collection, Grayson oversees day-to-day operations for DSNY, including the collection, recycling and disposal of more than 12,000 tons of waste per day and efforts to keep the city's communities healthy, safe and clean. He has implemented new technologies to improve snow removal and reform front-line operations, and he has been a leader in the Department's implementation of the City's aggressive zero-waste goals.

 

His father was a life-long Sanitation worker and supervisor and his mother was recycling outreach coordinator during the rollout of the City's groundbreaking citywide recycling program in the 1990s. Acting Commissioner Grayson was raised in Middle Village, Queens.