MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON 4.8 MAGNITUTE EARTHQUAKE FELT IN NEW YORK CITY

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement after New York City felt the impacts of a 4.8 magnitude earthquake:

“At approximately 10:23 AM, New York City felt the impact of a 4.8 magnitude earthquake. The epicenter was in Lebanon, New Jersey, about 50 miles from New York City. Our first responders are working to make sure New Yorkers are safe, and at this point, we do not have any reports of major impacts or injuries. 

“I encourage all New Yorkers to check on your loved ones, and if you feel an aftershock, drop to the floor, cover your head and neck, and take cover under a solid piece of furniture, next to an interior wall, or in a doorway. So far no major life safety issues reported, no reported infrastructure issues, but we will continue our inspections of critical infrastructure.”

BRONX MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS IN PRISON FOR MANSLAUGHTER FOR STRANGLING GIRLFRIEND WITH RUBBER WORKOUT BAND

 

Victim’s Teen Daughter Found Mother’s Body While Getting Ready for School

Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced that a Bronx man was sentenced to 25 years in prison for killing the mother of his children by fatally strangling her with a rubber ligature. 

Bronx District Attorney Clark said, “The victim’s children were in the home when their mother was strangled to death by the defendant. They will have to face the trauma of this unimaginable horror for the rest of their lives.” 

District Attorney Clark said the defendant, Angel DeJesus, 46, was sentenced on April 2, 2024, to 25 years in prison and five years’ post release supervision by Bronx Supreme Court Justice Joseph McCormack. The defendant pleaded guilty to first-degree Manslaughter on February 7, 2024. 

According to the investigation, on September 20, 2021, in the early hours of the morning, at the victim and defendant’s Melrose home at 390 East 158th Street, DeJesus strangled Belkis Lopez to death with a ligature. The defendant then left the home, leaving three children alone with their mother’s body in the apartment. The victim’s 14-year-old daughter woke up to get ready for school and found her mother’s body.

District Attorney Clark thanked NYPD Detective Arelis Collazo of the Bronx Homicide Squad, NYPD Detective John Caruso of the 40th Precinct and Detective Michael Fahy of the Bronx Warrants Squad for their work on the investigation.

Long Island Man Charged with Distributing Fentanyl, Heroin, Cocaine and Oxycodone

 

Four Kilos of Fentanyl, Pill Press Parts and Multiple Firearms Recovered from Defendant

Defendant Distributed Fentanyl that Caused the Death of a 49-Year-Old Man in Elmont 

At the federal courthouse in Central Islip, a two-count indictment was unsealed charging Ryan Mueller with distributing fentanyl that caused the death of a victim (Victim‑1) and with conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone.  Mueller was arrested this morning and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before Magistrate Judge Anne Y. Shields. 

Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Frank A. Tarentino, III, Special Agent-in-Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Darren B. McCormack, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner Nassau County Police Department (PDCN) announced the arrest and the charges. 

“As alleged, the defendant purposely disguised fentanyl to look like prescription drugs and sold them to unsuspecting customers, leading to the poisoning death of a Long Island resident,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “The defendant’s callous disregard for human life in pushing deadly drugs on to the streets of Long Island concealed as prescription drugs has contributed to the alarming opioid epidemic that has continued to harm communities in this district.”  

“This arrest shows the commitment the DEA and our law enforcement partners have in targeting those individuals who are poisoning our communities. Fentanyl is a lethal drug that dealers mix into their product knowing the harmful effects it presents to those using it, including death” stated DEA New York Division Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino. “We will continue to bring those responsible for this deadly distribution to justice.”

“It is appalling how criminals attempt to profit from the distribution of fentanyl which has led to a rising number of overdose and poisoning fatalities,” said HSI New York acting Special Agent in Charge Darren B. McCormack. “HSI New York continues to prioritize investigations into individuals and organizations that intentionally misrepresent fentanyl, heroin and other dangerous opioids as prescription drugs, having a devastating impact on the health of our citizens and the safety of our neighborhoods. Together with our law enforcement partners, HSI New York is committed to crippling and dismantling the illicit drug supply chains plaguing our American communities.”

“This indictment of defendant Ryan Mueller for selling Fentanyl, Heroin, Cocaine and Oxycodone to numerous individuals and lead to the death of a 49 year old Elmont man is a clear message that these crimes will never be tolerated.  In addition, Defendant Mueller was also in possession of numerous illegal firearms in which he is also being charged with.  Law Enforcement continues to work together to bring these criminals to justice, thus keeping our communities and neighborhoods safe.  I would like to congratulate all of the dedicated law enforcement professionals and their agencies for a job well done,” stated Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Ryder. 

According to court filings, over the last several years, the defendant conspired with others to sell several controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, oxycodone, and fentanyl.  The investigation revealed that in December 2022, a 49-year-old individual (Victim-1) died of a drug-related overdose at his residence in Elmont, Long Island.  Additional investigation showed that the fentanyl that killed Victim-1, which was in a pressed pill that made it appear to be oxycodone, was sold to the victim by the defendant.  During the investigation, law enforcement officers recovered several kilos of fentanyl from the defendant’s home. Law enforcement also recovered multiple pill press parts from another location controlled by the defendant, including powder dryers, blenders, and grinders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Justice, in 2019, nearly 71,000 people died from drug overdoses, making it a leading cause of injury-related death in the United States.  The increase in overdose deaths has been driven in large part by fentanyl, a drug that has been described as 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.   In 2019, over 14,000 people died in the United States from a drug overdose involving heroin.  From 2013 to 2019, the synthetic opioid death rate increased by more than 1,000 percent.  Of those deaths, over 70% involved a prescription or illicit opioid.  Among New York State residents, the number of overdose deaths involving any opioid increased each year between 2010 and 2017, with an overall increase of 200.2 percent from 1,074 in 2010 to 3,224 in 2017, according to the New York State Health Department.   If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or Findtreatment.gov.

If convicted on the charges in the indictment, the defendant faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a maximum sentence of life.

Latin Kings Leader Sentenced To Life Plus Seven Years In Prison For The 2017 Murder Of Joshua Flores

 

The Defendant, a Leader in the Violent Black Mob Tribe of the Latin Kings, Also Sentenced for Racketeering, Firearms, and Narcotics Offenses

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JONATHAN GARCIA, a/k/a “Jayo,” was sentenced to life plus seven years in prison for the May 2017 murder of Joshua Flores.  GARCIA, who was a leader in the Latin Kings gang, shot and killed Flores in front of a playground on a residential street in Queens, New York, while Flores was running away from GARCIA.  GARCIA was sentenced by U.S District Judge Valerie E. Caproni after being convicted by a jury following a four-day trial in June 2023. 

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Jonathan Garcia gunned down his victim, 23-year-old Joshua Flores, to gain standing within the violent Latin Kings street gang.  Then, Garcia bragged about the murder for years as he advanced in the ranks of the Latin Kings and engaged in additional violence and drug trafficking with his fellow gang members.  Gang violence will not be tolerated in this community.  This Office remains fully committed to working with our law enforcement partners to root out gang violence from the streets of New York City.” 

According to court filings and the evidence presented in court during the trial:

GARCIA is a member of a racketeering enterprise known as the Latin Kings and, specifically, the set, or “tribe,” of the Latin Kings known as the Black Mob, which operates in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island.  In order to enrich the enterprise, protect and expand its criminal operations, enforce discipline among its members, and retaliate against members of rival gangs, members and associates of the Black Mob committed, conspired, attempted, and threatened to commit acts of violence; distributed and possessed with intent to distribute narcotics, including heroin, fentanyl, and crack; committed robberies; and obtained, possessed, and used firearms.  In December 2019 and April 2021, several members and associates of the Black Mob, including its senior-most leaders, were charged with racketeering offenses, narcotics conspiracy, and firearms offenses.

GARCIA has been a member of the Latin Kings since at least 2012.  On May 18, 2017, GARCIA brought a firearm to a meeting with other Latin Kings members with whom he had been arguing and who intended to revoke GARCIA’s membership in the Latin Kings.  During the meeting, next to a park and playground in a residential area of Queens, GARCIA began arguing with the other gang members.  When the argument escalated, one of GARCIA’s associates fired a warning shot into the air, and gang members immediately began running away.  GARCIA then took the firearm from his associate and shot at the fleeing gang members, hitting Joshua Flores, who was trying to run away.  The bullet went through Flores’s back, into his jaw, and killed him.  The murder elevated GARCIA’s status within the Latin Kings, including the Black Mob, with whom GARCIA committed additional crimes in the years after the murder. 

GARCIA, 29, of Queens, New York, was previously found guilty of conspiracy to commit racketeering, murder in aid of racketeering, narcotics conspiracy, and use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York City Police Department.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (“OCDETF”) operation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.  

Bronx Man Charged With Foreign Murder Of A U.S. National

 

A Bronx man was arrested in Manhattan on criminal charges related to the alleged 2021 murder of a man in Bangladesh.

“As alleged in the indictment, the defendant, a U.S. national, murdered another U.S. national while they were both in Bangladesh,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “When an American murders another American abroad, they will face serious consequences.  The Criminal Division is committed to investigating and prosecuting violent crimes committed against U.S. nationals wherever they occur and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.” 

According to court documents, on or about June 11, 2021, Ganet Rozario, 52, of the Bronx, New York, killed Michael Rozario in Bangladesh. Ganet Rozario allegedly used and carried a firearm to carry out the murder.

“Ganet Rozario, a citizen of the United States, allegedly murdered another U.S. national in Bangladesh,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams for the Southern District of New York. “Today’s charges demonstrate that the reach of this office and that of our law enforcement partners is vast and that our commitment to protect the men and women of New York City extends far beyond its geographical boundaries. The message is clear: this office and its partners will be relentless in our pursuit of anyone who takes another life, even overseas.”

“The FBI devotes significant resources to investigating crimes that occur overseas which affect U.S. interests and impact American citizens,” said Acting Assistant Director in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Individuals who commit crimes against U.S. citizens abroad will be held accountable through the FBI’s extraterritorial investigations, which exist to deliver justice for victims of crimes beyond U.S. borders.”

“Ganet Rozario allegedly committed the cold and calculated murder of Michael Rozario, a U.S. national, overseas in Bangladesh,” said Assistant Director in Charge James H. Smith III of the FBI New York Field Office. “It’s not up to the discretion of a single individual to take the life of another as this greatly disrupts the scales of justice. Today’s arrest emphasizes the FBI’s promise to aggressively pursue such egregious criminal acts against our citizens, even if they occur in foreign countries.

Ganet Rozario will also make his court appearance today in the Southern District of New York.

Ganet Rozario is charged with one count of foreign murder of a U.S. national and one count of use, carrying, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

The FBI Los Angeles and New York Field Offices investigated the case.

Senior Trial Attorney Frank Rangoussis of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MANHATTAN MAN INDICTED FOR 1 st -DEGREE MURDER FOR SHOOTING ACQUAINTANCE, DISMEMBERING AND DECAPITATING HIM

 

Defendant Took Victim’s Body Parts to His Home and Hid Them in Freezer

Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a Manhattan man has been charged with first-degree Murder and additional charges for fatally shooting a Bronx man, cutting up his body and trying to hide the remains. 

District Attorney Clark said, “The defendant allegedly shot the victim in the head, and then carved up the man’s body and took drastic measures to hide the evidence. This crime was as cruel as it was gruesome.” 

District Attorney Clark said Sheldon Johnson, last of 1350 5th Ave in Manhattan, has been indicted on two counts of first-degree Murder, second-degree Murder, first-degree Manslaughter, first-degree Robbery, first degree Burglary, two counts of second-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon, two counts of second-degree burglary, third-degree Robbery, third-degree Burglary, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Concealment of a Human Corpse. Johnson was arraigned today before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Verena Powell and was remanded. The defendant is due back in court on June 12, 2024. 

According to the investigation, on March 5, 2024, at approximately 1:00 a.m. inside 979 Summit Avenue, the Bronx, the defendant allegedly shot Collin Small, 44, multiple times in the head. Johnson allegedly dismembered him and cut off his head. The defendant was seen on surveillance video leaving and entering the victim’s apartment carrying multiple bags and cleaning supplies, allegedly wearing a wig, sunglasses, a mask, and different clothing. On March 6, 2024, after the execution of a search warrant, the victim’s head and several body parts were found in the freezer in Johnson’s Manhattan apartment.

District Attorney Clark thanked Detective Jonathan Burke of the Bronx Homicide Squad, and Detective Michael Jenkins, 44th Precinct Detective Squad. 

An indictment is an accusatory instrument and not proof of a defendant’s guilt. 

Governor Hochul Provides Update on Weather Related Eclipse Viewing Locations in the Adirondacks

 

Adirondack Campgrounds and Related Facilities Remain Closed as Unsafe Winter Conditions Continue

Travelers Urged to Stay Informed as Weather Forecast is Subject to Change

New Yorkers Urged to Prepare for High Traffic Volume and Backups Throughout the Day

Governor Kathy Hochul provided updated viewing location information for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, and offered additional resources to those who are planning to view the eclipse on Monday. Unsafe winter conditions are expected in the Adirondack backcountry during and after this week’s storm, with upwards of 18 inches of snow in high elevations, as well as mixed precipitation with ice accumulations and high winds. When combined with wet, heavy snow, strong and gusty winds have the potential to down large tree limbs and smaller trees, with power outages already reported. The accumulation of additional snow will add to the four feet of snowpack that currently exists at high elevations today.

“New York State has prepared for and continues to deal with this spring storm, with emergency management crews deployed to locations that have been hit hard,” Governor Hochul said. “I cannot stress enough how being weather-wise helps to ensure everyone in the path of the eclipse can safely enjoy this rare event and I encourage visitors traveling for this experience to plan ahead and arrive early at their destination and to stay late in order to enjoy all of what our state has to offer.”

Following the storm, temperatures are forecast to rise back into the 50s, just in time for Monday’s total solar eclipse. Warmer temperatures will create even more hazardous conditions with rapidly melting snow, ice, and possible avalanche danger in the Adirondacks. Snowmelt will cause rivers and streams to rise to potential flood levels. High water conditions will make fording streams impossible, potentially resulting in hikers being stranded in the interior until waters recede. Hazardous conditions, including extremely muddy trails and the potential of mudslides, should be expected.

While visiting parks and historic sites operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, visitors are reminded to stay on designated trails and in designated viewing areas. Pay attention to signage and stay out of areas marked closed to the public as these may present hazardous conditions. Dress appropriately for the weather and plan accordingly when heading out on the trail. Park in designated areas only and be aware of distracted drivers when walking along roads. Drivers should be “pedestrian-aware.” Observe all rules and regulations when visiting a park or historic site. Camping is limited. A reservation is required to stay overnight in a state park. New reservations are no longer available for the nights of April 7 and 8.

Boaters and paddlers should be aware of the dangers of cold water if venturing out this spring for recreation or to view the solar eclipse. OPRHP recommends to boaters and paddlers that the water is still very cold in the first few weeks of spring – and precautions should be taken. If you are going out on a boat that is less than 21' in length, you must wear a lifejacket, regardless of age between November 1 - May 1. More information is available online.

Travelers are encouraged to stay informed throughout the duration of their trip as the weather forecast is subject to change. Visitors should be prepared for high volume traffic, especially on routes surrounding locations in the path of totality.

Tips and Resources

• Protect your eyes with specialized solar viewing glasses.
• Plan on staying in one place for the day due to anticipated traffic volume.
• Allow for plenty of extra travel time.
• Also remember to gas up your vehicle and pack snacks, water, blankets, and extra clothes in your car – weather this time of year can vary from warm temperatures to cold temperatures with snow!
• Do not stop to view the eclipse along the roadway, first responders need to be able to get through if there is an emergency.
• Share your trip details with an emergency contact and make sure they have your itinerary, including travel details such as driving route and hotel information.

Online Resources

• Extensive information about the eclipse, viewing locations, and safety tips can be found at iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024/.
• Visit www.511ny.org or download the 511NY app for current travel conditions. Also monitor local media for traffic reports.
• Motorists can also download the New York State Thruway Authority’s mobile app, which provides direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.
• Those visiting State parks can download the Parks Explorer App and ‘favorite’ the state park or historic site they plan to visit for real-time updates at the location. For more information on visiting a state park or historic site during the eclipse, go to parks.ny.gov/eclipse.
• Sign up for emergency weather alerts at alert.ny.gov.
• For a complete listing of current weather alerts and forecasts, visit the National Weather Service at alerts.weather.gov.

VCJC News & Notes 4/5/24

 

Van Cortlandt Jewish Center

News and Notes

Here's this week's edition of the VCJC News and Notes email. We hope you enjoy it and find it useful!

Reminders

1. Shabbos
   
   

   Shabbos information is, as always, available on our website, both in the information sidebar and the events calendar.
   Here are the times you need:  
   Shabbos Candles Friday 4/5/24 @ 7:07 pm
   Shabbos morning services at 8:40 am.  Please join the services if you can do so safely. 
   Shabbos Ends Saturday 4/6/24@ 8:11 pm
   Kiddush sponsored by Stu Harris in celebration of his birthday (4/3), his anniversary (4/17) and in honor of his father’s yahrzeit (4/21).

Our mailing address is:

Van Cortlandt Jewish Center

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