14 Defendants, Including Leaders of the Colombo Organized Crime Family, Plead Guilty to Various Felony Charges

 

Defendants Included the Colombo Crime Family’s Underboss, Consigliere and Captains

  At the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, Vincent Ricciardo, also known as “Vinny Unions,” a captain in the Colombo crime family of La Cosa Nostra, pleaded guilty to racketeering related to his extortion of a high-ranking official of a Queens-based labor union (the “Labor Union”), loansharking, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.  Ricciardo is the last of the defendants indicted in 2021 and 2022 in connection with various offenses committed by members and associates of the Colombo crime family involving extortion, money laundering conspiracy, drug-trafficking, fraud and loansharking offenses.  Previously, Benjamin Castellazzo, the Colombo family underboss, pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy and Ralph DiMatteo, the Colombo consigliere, pleaded guilty to racketeering involving extortion and money laundering conspiracy.  Colombo family captains Theodore Persico, Jr., who was slated to become the crime family’s next boss, and Richard Ferrara also pleaded guilty to racketeering.  Other defendants convicted of racketeering included Colombo family soldier Michael Uvino and associates Thomas Costa and Dominick Ricciardo.

In addition, various employee welfare benefit plan brokers and providers, including Albert Alimena, Joseph Bellantoni, and Erin Thompkins, pleaded guilty to health care fraud conspiracy stemming from their agreement with Colombo family members to divert benefit funds to the Mafia family.  The guilty pleas took place before United States District Judge Hector Gonzalez. 

Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the guilty pleas.

“There can be no doubt that the Colombo crime family has been decapitated as a result of the guilty pleas by its leadership and other facilitators of lucrative schemes,” stated United States Attorney Peace.  “This Office, and the outstanding prosecutors, Special Agents, and detectives responsible for this significant blow are nevertheless mindful of the resilience of organized crime and we will not relent in our efforts to dismantle, disrupt, and disable this destructive menace in our communities.”

Mr. Peace expressed his appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), the New York City Police Department, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration and Office of the Inspector General, the Nassau County Police Department, the New York City Department of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Gang Section for their invaluable assistance in the investigation.

According to earlier court filings and facts presented during the guilty plea proceedings, the defendants and their co-conspirators committed a variety of crimes – including extortion, loansharking, fraud, and drug-trafficking – to enrich themselves and to promote the continued operation of the Colombo organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra.  The Colombo family’s administration, including boss Andrew Russo (who passed away during the pendency of the case), underboss Castellazzo and consigliere DiMatteo, as well captains Persico, Ferrara, and Vincent Ricciardo, agreed to use extortionate means, including threats of bodily harm, to force the official to give over a portion of his salary and, eventually, to take decisions at the Labor Union and with its affiliated healthcare benefit fund (the “Health Fund”) that would enrich the Colombo crime family’s administration, including attempts to force the trustees of the Health Fund to select vendors who were associated with the Colombo crime family and handpicked by some of the defendants.  The crime family’s administration sought to divert more than $10,000 per month from the Health Fund’s assets to the Mafia.

In addition, Castellazzo, DiMatteo, Persico, Ferrara, Ricciardo, and Uvino joined with defendants Alimena, Thompkins, and Bellantoni to devise a scheme to launder money from Health Fund contracts and vendor payments.  These defendants attempted to re-bid Health Fund vendor contracts for claims administration, pharmaceuticals, and other health services to persons and companies affiliated with Bellantoni, and to select a company run by Alimena as the Health Fund’s third-party administrator.   

Bonanno crime family soldier John Ragano, who was also known as “Bazoo” and the “Maniac,” also led a scheme to issue fraudulent workplace safety training certifications from two occupational safety schools he purported to operate in Long Island.   Rather than provide workplace safety trainings required to obtain Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certification, Ragano along with John Glover and Domenick Ricciardo, falsified paperwork submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor and other government agencies which represented that hundreds of workers had completed construction safety training courses when they had not.  Instead, various defendants used Ragano’s schools to conduct meetings involving members of La Cosa Nostra and to store illegal drugs and fireworks.  In November 2022, Ragano pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud in connection with a means of identification.  He was sentenced in April 2023 to 57 months’ imprisonment.  In December 2022, Domenick Ricciardo pleaded guilty to racketeering and was sentenced in June 2023 to 28 months’ imprisonment.

When sentenced, Castellazzo, DiMatteo, Ferrara, Martino, Persico, Vincent Ricciardo, and Uvino each face up to 20 years in prison.  Costa faces up to 30 years in prison.  Glover faces up to 15 years in prison.  Alimena, Bellantoni, and Thompkins face up to 10 years in prison.   

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys James P. McDonald, Devon Lash, Michael W. Gibaldi, and Andrew Reich are in charge of the prosecution.

The Defendants:

ALBERT ALIMENA

Age: 69

Pompano Beach, Florida

JOSEPH BELLANTONI

Age: 41

Massapequa, New York

BENJAMIN CASTELLAZZO (also known as “Benji”)

Age: 85

Manahawkin, New Jersey

THOMAS COSTA

Age: 54

West Islip, New York

RALPH DIMATTEO

Age: 68

Merrick, New York

RICHARD FERRARA

Age: 61

Brooklyn, New York

JOHN GLOVER

Age: 64

Queens, New York

VINCENT MARTINO

Age: 45

Medford, New York

THEODORE PERSICO, JR. (also known as “Teddy”)

Age: 59

Brooklyn, New York

JOHN RAGANO (also known as “Bazoo” and the “Maniac”)

Age: 61

Franklin Square, New York

DOMENICK RICCIARDO

Age: 57

Franklin Square, New York

VINCENT RICCIARDO (also known as “Vinny Unions”)

Age: 77

Franklin Square, New York

ERIN THOMPKINS

Age: 55

Franklin Square, New York

MICHAEL UVINO

Age: 57

Garden City, New York

Governor Hochul Welcomes DEC Forest Ranger Crew Returning From Fighting Wildfires In Canada

 

Third Successful Ranger Deployment This Summer

 Governor Kathy Hochul today welcomed home New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers who spent two weeks battling wildfires in Canada. The Rangers were joined by wildland firefighters from Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Rangers returned on Sunday, July 16, after spending 14 days in Quebec working on multiple fires. 

"New Yorkers understand all too well the hazardous impact smoke from the Canadian wildfires have on daily life," Governor Hochul said. "We are fortunate to have brave individuals willing to step up to help those in need, and I thank our courageous firefighters whose efforts are critical in containing these wildfires."

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "No matter the crisis, DEC Forest Rangers are always ready to help. In this case, they spent 14 days in the middle of smoke and flames to help our neighbors and also New Yorkers suffering from poor air quality. I thank our experts in wildland firefighting and incident command for their continued dedication and sacrifice."

Crew Boss Ranger Gary Miller led seven additional Rangers as part of a 20-person wildland firefighting team assigned to the Micoua Fire Complex, which burned approximately 40,600 acres. The crew included:

David Corey - Essex and Franklin counties

Lincoln Hanno - Herkimer and Lewis counties

Howard Kreft - Ulster County

Gary Miller - Hamilton County

Joseph Pries - Dutchess and Putnam counties

Logan Quinn - Essex County

John Scott - Suffolk County

Nathan Sprague - Cattaraugus County

Throughout Canada, more than 4,000 fires have burned an estimated 23.7 million acres. On June 2, one Forest Ranger was deployed as a Crew Boss to Nova Scotia. On June 8, Governor Hochul announced that a team of seven DEC Forest Rangers was deploying to assist with efforts to help contain the wildfires in Quebec. At the same time, New York State was under an Air Quality Health Advisory due to the smoke from those wildfires that traveled across state borders and created significant air quality issues. 

The State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) of Health (DOH) issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, such as ozone or smoke-induced fine particulate matter (PM2.5), are expected to exceed a federal Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. The latest AQI Forecast can be viewed here. 

These three missions are the first time New York State Forest Rangers have been deployed to Canada since wildfires in Quebec in 2005. In 1979, New York sent its first firefighting crew to assist western states with large wildfires. On average, one or two crews are sent as needed to assist with wildfires nearly every year. In addition to helping contain wildfires and minimize damage, these crews gain valuable experience that can be utilized fighting wildfires and managing all-risk incidents in New York. 

Personnel and travel expenses for the New York crews are either paid directly by the U.S. Forest Service or reimbursed to New York State based on a mutual aid agreement between states and federal land agencies. 

Air Quality Health Advisory Issued for All Regions of New York State

In Effect for Monday, July 17, 2023

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the Long Island, New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley, Adirondacks, Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, and Western New York regions for Monday, July 17, 2023.  

The pollutants of concern are: 

• Fine Particulate Matterfor New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley, Adirondacks, Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, and Western New York
• Ozone for Long Island, New York City Metro

The fine particulate matter advisory will be in effect from 12 a.m. through 11:59 p.m. 

The ozone advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. 

OZONE

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and are the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast. This surface pollutant should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere.

Ozone and PM2.5 are two different pollutants that form in different ways: PM2.5 is often produced directly as smoke from wildfires and other sources of small particles emitted into the air.

Ozone is not a direct emission, and is produced indirectly when sunlight chemically reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from automobile exhaust and industrial emissions. High ozone isn't as visible as PM2.5 because it's a colorless gas, but it will produce hazy skies and reduce visibility in high concentrations.

The smoky and hazy sky in an otherwise mostly sunny, stagnant air mass can be very conducive for ozone production. The wildfire smoke can enhance the ozone production, but it's not the primary component.

People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma) should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce your exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing should consider consulting their doctor.

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available.

FINE PARTICULATE MATTER

Fine particulate matter consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets in the air that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter. PM 2.5 can be made of many different types of particles and often come from processes that involve combustion (e.g. vehicle exhaust, power plants, and fires) and from chemical reactions in the atmosphere.

 

Exposure can cause short-term health effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. People with heart or breathing problems, and children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM 2.5.

 

When outdoor levels are elevated, going indoors may reduce exposure. If there are significant indoor sources of PM 2.5 (tobacco, candle or incense smoke, or fumes from cooking) levels inside may not be lower than outside. Some ways to reduce exposure are to minimize outdoor and indoor sources and avoid strenuous activities in areas where fine particle concentrations are high.

 

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy saving and pollution-reducing steps:

• use mass transit instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, people are strongly advised to carpool only with members of their households;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.

Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website (PM 2.5) / DOH's website (ozone). To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up to receive Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers: DEC's Premier Email Service.

Praise ‘Bee’ to the Pollinators All Weekend at Wave Hill

 

Celebrate the winged creatures who beautify our gardens and put food on our tables during Wave Hill’s Bees, Butterflies & Blooms Weekend, August 12–13! Wave Hill is home to many different pollinators, including native bees, butterflies and our resident honeybees. Spend the day chatting with naturalists and beekeepers, visiting our honeybee hives, creating art, joining walks with experts to see pollinators in action and more. The gardens are full of flowers, so expect to see a bounty of butterflies snacking on plants and learn more from our butterfly experts. Swing by The Shop to purchase tasty honey, beeswax candles and a host of bee and butterfly-themed gifts.

There is a full program of events for gardeners and naturalists of all ages, including special events just for families. Bees, Butterflies & Blooms Weekend is a premium-admission weekend, with a $2 surcharge per visitor; there is no admission charge for children under six. Events this weekend are all free with admission to the grounds, but a materials fee will be collected for the Candle Making Workshop. Pollinators are vital to our gardens and to sustaining ecosystems everywhere. Come spend the weekend paying tribute to them—and honoring the ways we can all help sustain these crutial creatures.  

BEES, BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS WEEKEND SATURDAY AUGUST 12 – SUNDAY AUGUST 13 Welcome Table and Pollinat ion Info St at ion 10AM–4PM Plan your visit here! Pick up self-guided tours and activities, chat with an insect expert and go home with a list of pollinator-friendly plants. 

Native Pollinator Walk 11AM–11:45AM; 1–1:45PM Flowers attract the attention of both human and animal visitors. Honeybees, bumblebees and butterflies are easily spotted in the garden, but solitary bees, beetles and other native pollinators are often overlooked. With net in hand, naturalist Chris Kreussling scours the garden for all sorts of hard-working pollinators, offering a close-up look at a variety of insects before returning them to their pollinating duties. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult. 

Meet the Butterflies 11AM–3PM Meet butterfly experts from the Tenafly Nature Center as they showcase a collection of beautifully colored butterflies and their caterpillars, sipping nectar, taking flight and munching on their favorite plants. Learn about the life cycle of butterflies and their importance to our ecosystem. Visit a butterflies' mini habitat tent and ask questions or simply relax and enjoy the space while butterflies flit and fly about.  

Hives and Honey Headquarters 11AM–4PM Chat with beekeepers Mufti Ahmed, Pam Golben and Junior Schouten. Peek inside an empty hive, check out live bees in an observation hive (weather permitting) and learn fascinating facts about honeybees. 

Drop-in Candle-Making Workshop 11AM–2PM Saturday Only Drop by Armor Hall and try your hand at creating rolled beeswax candles to take home and enjoy. Materials fee collected upon entry to workshop; each kit includes enough supplies to make several candles. For adults and children ages 5 and older welcome with an adult. 

Cooking Demo: A Taste of Honey 12PM–1PM Sunday Only Honey is a sweet liquid produced by honeybees from the nectar of flowers. Discover fascinating facts about honey and compare the complex tastes of honey with a Wave Hill beekeeper and Chef Nick Acosta of Great Performances, Wave Hill's exclusive caterer. Sample delicious recipes using local honey and take home recipes designed to take advantage of honey harvest season. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult.

FAMILY PROGRAMS Family Art Project : Can You Bee-It 10AM–1PM Have you tried weaving? Hone your cardboard loom weaving technique by making hexagonal creations in the shape of a beehive’s cells. Beautify your soft beehive with yarn scraps and cork-bees while learning about life in the hive.

Nature Detectives: Pollinator Walk for Families 1PM–2PM Join environmental educator Olivia Kalin on an expedition to find colorful butterflies, busy bees and other creature pollinators and their favorite flowers. Ages 5 and older welcome with an adult. 

Yoga for Busy Bees 11AM–12PM Saturday Only Join environmental educator and yoga instructor Corinne Flax as she guides young yogis through a sequence of fun poses inspired by our favorite pollinators. Learn a cooling “bee’s breath” technique, move together through a celebratory “sun salute” and pose like a lotus flower or butterfly. Ages 5 and older welcome with an adult.

About Wave Hill 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 landscapes, 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–Sunday, 10AM–5:30PM. Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory 10AM–Noon; 1–4PM. ADMISSION TO THE GROUNDS: $10 adults, $6 students and seniors 65+, $4 children 6-18. Free Thursdays. Free to Wave Hill Members, children under 6. DIRECTIONS at wavehill.org. 

Wave Hill • 675 W 252 Street, Bronx, NY 10471 • 718.549.3200

Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto on Legislation to Address Homelessness Crisis by Helping New Yorkers Move Out of Shelter and Avoid Evictions with CityFHEPS Vouchers

 

Council also votes on legislation from Mental Health Roadmap, bills to protect New Yorkers against lead, provide pathways to civil service for justice-involved New Yorkers, and preserve access to gender affirming care    

The New York City Council overwhelmingly voted, 42-8, to override the Mayor’s veto of the Council’s legislation to address record homelessness and the eviction crisis by reforming the CityFHEPS rental assistance voucher program. The four-bill legislative package will not only help New Yorkers move out of shelters, but also prevent evictions of the lowest income New Yorkers most at risk of homelessness from entering the shelter system. At a time of record homelessness and when the number of eviction notices in the City has exceeded 178,000, these bills remove barriers to CityFHEPS vouchers to help low-income New Yorkers facing homelessness and housing insecurity. Fiscal cost analyses from Women in Need (WIN) and the Community Service Society of New York (CSSNY) projected that the bills would save the City over $730 million in costs from homelessness and its various impacts on New Yorkers.

In addition, the Council voted on legislation from the Council’s Mental Health Roadmap, as well as bills to protect New Yorkers against lead exposure, provide pathways to civil service for justice-involved New Yorkers, preserve access to gender affirming care, ensure housing placement transparency for transgender, gender nonconforming, non-binary or intersex individuals in Department of Correction (DOC) custody, and to create mile markers in the Rockaways in Queens. 

“New York City is in the midst of an intense eviction crisis that risks pushing more people into homelessness,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “These bills are aimed at removing barriers faced by the lowest income New Yorkers to accessing vouchers that can help them avoid losing their homes and becoming unhoused. During a time of record homelessness, it is critical that we respond with the urgency and strength needed to address the scale of this crisis. I am proud of this Council for its commitment to advancing these solutions today, and we will need to do far more to address the housing crisis. New Yorkers and our city need us to do this.”

Overriding Mayoral Veto of CityFHEPS Voucher Legislation

Introduction 878-A, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, would remove shelter stay as a precondition to CityFHEPS eligibility. This would end the 90-day rule, reduce length of stay in the shelter system, and prevent new shelter entrants. 

Introduction 893-A, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, would remove certain Department of Social Services (DSS)’ criteria that determines eligibility for CityFHEPS and give New Yorkers the ability to demonstrate risk of eviction by presenting a rent demand letter.   

Introduction 894-A, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, would change the eligibility for a CityFHEPS voucher from 200 percent of the federal poverty level to 50 percent of the area median income and ease work and source of income requirements that make it difficult for individuals to pursue employment and housing concurrently.

Introduction 229-A, sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán, would prohibit the Department of Social Services from deducting a utility allowance from the maximum amount of a CityFHEPS voucher except in limited circumstances.

Mental Health Roadmap Legislation

Introduction 1018-A, sponsored by Council Member Linda Lee, would require the Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health (OCMH), in conjunction with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), the New York City Police Department (NYPD), the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), and other agencies, to provide an annual report to the Council with information regarding involuntary removals conducted pursuant to Mental Hygiene Law Sections 9.41 and 9.58.

Introduction 1019-A, sponsored by Council Member Linda Lee, would require OCMH to maintain access to an interactive map of the locations, contact information, and payment information (including type of insurance accepted) of mental health services providers.

Introduction 1021-A, sponsored by Majority Leader Keith Powers, would require the Mayor to establish four new crisis respite centers to provide individuals with mental illness increased access to community-based, peer-run facilities that are alternatives to hospitalization when such individuals experience psychiatric care.

Introduction 1022-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin Riley, would require the Mayor to establish five new clubhouses for individuals with serious mental illness, which are community-based facilities designed to support such individuals by providing wraparound services and opportunities for social connection, including group activities, peer support, job readiness skills, and transitional employment opportunities.

Protecting New Yorkers Against Lead

Introduction 193-A, sponsored by Council Member Carlina Rivera, would categorize lead-based paint that is peeling or on a deteriorated subsurface in the common areas of a residential building as an immediately hazardous violation and strengthen inspection requirements for such common areas when children reside within in the building.  

Introduction 200-A, sponsored by Council Member Rafael Salamanca, would require DOHMH to submit to the Mayor and the Speaker of the Council, and make publicly available on DOHMH’s website, a semiannual report on the number of objections filed by multiple dwelling owners to DOHMH lead abatement orders. The report would be required to include the number of objections filed by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and to specify the reasons why any objections are found to have merit, including faulty testing or paint sampling, or an exemption based on the dwelling’s construction date.

Providing Pathways to Civil Service for Justice Involved New Yorkers

Introduction 645-B, sponsored by Speaker Adrienne Adams, would strengthen the pathway to civil service for justice involved New Yorkers by requiring Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) to administer civil service exams in the City’s forthcoming borough-based jails, authorizing DCAS to waive the civil service exam fee for justice involved individuals, and requiring the City to provide information about the civil service exam system to them.

Preserving Access to Gender Affirming Care

Introduction 1074-A, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, would prohibit the use of city resources to detain any person for seeking, obtaining, providing, or facilitating gender-affirming care in the state of New York, or outside the state of New York in circumstances where such conduct would have been lawful had it occurred in the state of New York. The bill further prohibits the use of city resources to cooperate with an investigation of a person on grounds that such person is known or believed to have sought, obtained, provided, or facilitated gender-affirming care outside the state of New York under circumstances where their conduct would have been lawful had it occurred in the State of New York.

Ensuring Housing Placement Transparency for Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, Non-Binary or Intersex in Department of Correction (DOC) Custody

Introduction 887-B, sponsored by Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, would require the DOC to report quarterly about the housing placements of transgender, gender nonconforming, non-binary or intersex within DOC’s custody.

Creating Mile Markers in the Rockaways

Introduction 853-A, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to install mile markers along designated sections of Cross Bay Boulevard, Beach Channel Drive, and Rockaway Point Boulevard, which will help motorists who are stranded and need to communicate their location to support services.

Land Use

• 1656 West 10th Street Rezoning – Allstar Homecare Agency, Inc seeks a Map Amendment to change an existing R5B zoning district to R6A, and a related Zoning Text Amendment to map the rezoning area as a Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) area in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn.These actionswill facilitate a new six-story residential building with ground-floor community facility space. It will include 24 housing units, approximately 6 affordable units under MIH Option 1, and 10 accessory off-street parking spaces, in Council Member Kalman Yeger’s district.
• 189-10 Northern Blvd. Commercial Overlay – As a result of the applicant having withdrawn this application, in Council Member Vickie Paladino’s district. The Council will be voting to file this Land use item to remove it from our calendar. 
• 43rd Avenue Demapping – An application for demapping and disposing a portion of 43rd Avenue with an existing encroachment, in Council Member Vickie Paladino’s district. The Council will be voting on a resolution to disapprove this application.

Suspected Russian Intelligence Operative Extradited from Estonia to Face Charges Related to Providing American-Made Electronics and Ammunition to Russian Military

 

Defendant Allegedly Smuggled Dual-Use Technologies and Ammunition from U.S. Companies for Russia’s Defense Sector

 A Russian citizen with alleged ties to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) was arraigned on an indictment charging him with conspiracy and other charges related to a global procurement and money laundering network on behalf of the Russian government.

According to court documents, Vadim Konoshchenok, 48, of Tallinn, Estonia, was arrested in Estonia on a provisional arrest warrant issued from the Eastern District of New York and extradited from Estonia to the United States on July 13.

“This defendant, who is suspected of having ties to the FSB, smuggled hundreds of thousands of illicit munitions in support of Moscow’s war machine, using front companies to conceal his criminal enterprise,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Department of Justice remains steadfast in its mission to counter Russian aggression and we will give no quarter to those who violate U.S. sanctions to further fuel its war effort.”

“In early December, I met with Estonian counterparts in Tallinn regarding the pending U.S. request to arrest Vadim Konoshchenok,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “I would like to pay tribute to Prosecutor General Andres Parmas’s team, and to the Estonian Internal Security Service, for their prioritization of this case, and for their close coordination with the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs on the provisional arrest and extradition of Konoshchenok.”

“As alleged, the defendant was a critical participant in a scheme to provide sensitive, American-made electronics and ammunition in furtherance of Russia’s war efforts and weapons development, violating U.S. export controls, economic sanctions and other criminal statutes,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. “Let this case serve as the latest example that no matter where you are in the world, if you violate U.S. export controls or evade U.S. sanctions, we will not rest until you face justice in a U.S. courtroom.”

“The FBI and our partners work diligently to bring to justice those who assist Russia’s military interests and put national security at risk,” said Assistant Director Suzanne Turner of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “According to the allegations in the indictment, Konoshchenok helped the FSB smuggle military grade ammunition and a range of nuclear and computer equipment which could be used as instruments of war. Today’s indictment is a fierce reminder of the lengths Russian intelligences services will go to advance Russia’s military capabilities. The FBI is deeply committed to disrupting and dismantling these actions.”

According to the indictment and court filings, Konoshchenok and his co-defendants were affiliated with Serniya Engineering and Sertal LLC (the Serniya Network), Moscow-based companies that operate under the direction of Russian intelligence services to procure advanced electronics and sophisticated testing equipment for Russia’s military industrial complex and research and development sector, some of which can be used in the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons, quantum computing and other military applications. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) levied sanctions against Serniya, Sertal and several individuals and companies engaged in the scheme, calling them “instrumental to the Russian Federation’s war machine.”

As alleged in the indictment, the Serniya Network was licensed to conduct highly sensitive and classified procurement activities by Russia’s FSB, Russia’s principal security agency and the main successor agency to the Soviet Union’s KGB. According to court documents, in electronic communications, Konoshchenok explicitly identified himself as an FSB “Colonel” and enclosed a photograph of himself wearing his FSB uniform. Additionally, a review of electronic communications equipment recovered from Konoshchenok revealed saved contacts beginning with the prefix “FSB” and email addresses from “FSB[.]ru” domains. One of Konoshchenok’s calendar entries referenced an “FSB order.”

As described in the indictment, Estonia was a popular transshipment point, where Konoshchenok would smuggle U.S.-origin items across the border into Russia. On Oct. 27, 2022, Konoshchenok was detained by Estonian authorities while attempting to cross into Russia from Estonia with approximately 35 different types of semiconductors and electronic components, including several U.S.-origin and export-controlled items. Konoshchenok has also been repeatedly stopped by Estonian border officials attempting to smuggle hundreds of thousands of American-made and export-controlled rounds into Russia, including 6.5 mm, 7 mm, .338 and .308 magnum rounds, which are commonly used by snipers, as well as military-grade .223 rounds.

Konoshchenok used an Estonian front company called Stonebridge Resources and communicated frequently with other co-conspirators about sourcing, transporting and paying for controlled items. In electronic communications, Konoshchenok is clear that his fee is “10%” because he “can’t do less. Sanctions . . . Sanction item for 10%.”

To date, over half a ton of military-grade ammunition linked to Konoshchenok has been recovered or interdicted before being smuggled into Russia.

If convicted, Konoshchenok faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.

The FBI is investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Estonian authorities, including Estonian Internal Security Service (KAPO) and the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Republic of Estonia, provided significant assistance in securing foreign evidence, the arrest and extradition of Konoshchenok.

This case has been coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export restrictions, and economic countermeasures that the United States has imposed, along with its allies and partners, in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will leverage all the Department’s tools and authorities against efforts to evade or undermine the economic actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.

Governor Hochul Warns New Yorkers of Potential for Additional Flooding in Previously Impacted Areas as More Rainfall Expected Through the Weekend

 

Two to Three Inches of Rain Expected in Parts of Mid-Hudson and Capital Region, with Locally Higher Totals of Up to Five Inches, Could Cause Additional Flash Flooding in Already Devastated Areas

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Pre-Staging Equipment, Flood Rescue Team, Sandbags and Water Pumps to Orange County

State Agencies Monitoring Weather Conditions and Ready to Deploy Additional Assets, if Necessary

Governor Urges New Yorkers to Monitor Weather Conditions and Develop a Plan in Event of Flooding

 Governor Kathy Hochul today cautioned New Yorkers as showers and thunderstorms are forecast to continue through the weekend and into next week. An additional two to three inches of rainfall is in the forecast for parts of the Mid-Hudson and Capital Region, where grounds are already saturated, and river and stream levels are still running high from storms earlier this week. Locally higher rainfall amounts of up to five inches are possible. Heavy downpours from storms this weekend could cause flash flooding in previously impacted locations. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to monitor their local forecast for the latest weather conditions and to sign up for emergency alerts.

"Communities across New York were devastated by heavy rains and flooding over the last week, and we're continuing to stay vigilant for more weather impacts this weekend," Governor Hochul said. "My team is closely monitoring the forecast and we stand ready to assist our local government partners in the event of additional flash flooding."

State agencies are in constant communication with local government partners throughout the state and are prepared to respond to any additional requests for assistance. Already, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) has pre-deployed a high-axle response vehicle and a swift water rescue team to its stockpile near Orange County for rapid response. DHSES is also providing sandbags and water pumps to mitigate flood impacts in already devastated areas.

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "Several inches of additional rain is expected in regions still recovering from last week's floods. Our team is closely monitoring the forecast today and tomorrow and prepared to deploy additional assets as needed throughout the state."

The entire eastern part of the state is currently under a Flood Watch, through this evening, including the North Country, Capital Region, Mohawk Valley, Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions. For a complete listing of weather alerts and forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website at https://alerts.weather.gov.

New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for NY Alert, the State's free emergency alert system, at alert.ny.gov. County-by-county emergency information can be pushed by text or email.

Severe Weather Safety Tips

Disaster Supplies

Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards

Flash Flooding

• Never attempt to drive on a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
• If water begins to rise rapidly around you in your car, abandon the vehicle immediately.
• Do not underestimate the power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car, and water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.

Lightning

• Follow the 30-30 rule: If the time between when you see a flash of lightning and hear thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to hit you. Seek shelter immediately. After the last flash of lightning, wait 30 minutes before leaving your shelter.
• Lightning hits the tallest object. If you are above a tree line, quickly get below it and crouch down if you are in an exposed area.
• If you can't get to a shelter, stay away from trees. If there is no shelter, crouch in the open, keeping twice as far away from a tree as it is tall.

Tornado

• If outdoors and a Tornado Warning is issued, seek shelter immediately. If there is no shelter nearby, lie flat in a ditch or low spot with your hands shielding your head.
• If at home or in a small building, go to the basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of the building. Stay away from windows. Closets, bathrooms, and other interior rooms offer the best protection. Get under something sturdy or cover yourself with a mattress.
• If in a school, hospital, or shopping center, go to a pre-designated shelter area. Stay away from large open areas and windows. Do not go outside to your car.
• If in a high-rise building, go to an interior small room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. Do not use elevators - use stairs instead.

For more information on personal preparedness and how to stay safe during severe weather, visit: https://www.dhses.gov/safety.

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ADVISES NEW YORKERS TO PREPARE FOR POTENTIAL SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS AND FLASH FLOODS

 

The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a travel advisory for Sunday, July 16. According to the National Weather Service, New York City may experience showers and thunderstorms starting late tonight and continuing until Sunday evening, with most showers occurring Sunday afternoon into the evening. The severe weather could lead to widespread rainfall ranging from 1 to 2 inches, with localized amounts of 3 to 5 inches possible. There is a moderate risk for flash flooding in certain parts of the city especially in poor drainage areas and a Flood Watch is now in effect for the entire region.

  

“We are closely tracking the impending storm that could bring significant rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and flash flooding to our city starting late tonight and into tomorrow,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Particularly for those in flood-prone areas, this is a time for heightened alertness and adherence to safety precautions. I call on all New Yorkers to keep themselves informed using our official channels for the most current updates."

 

New York City Emergency Management, in response to the forecasted weather threat, has activated its Flash Flood Plan. For access to timely and accurate updates, New Yorkers should sign up for the City’s emergency alert system Notify NYC and follow NYC Emergency Management on social media. 

   

Safety Tips

• Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation.  
• If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.  
• If you live in a basement apartment in a flood prone area, prepare to move to higher ground.
• Do not drive into flooded streets or enter flooded subway stations. 
• Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.
• Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications at gov/NotifyNYCor call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.

  

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the City’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies. To learn more about the Notify NYC program or to sign up, visit NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, call 311, or download the free app for your Android or Apple device. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.