33 people face charges in one of the largest gang crackdowns in Queens history

NEW YORK — Thirty-three suspected gang members have been charged, including with murder, in what is arguably the largest gang bust in Queens history, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Tuesday. , and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. Commissioner Keechant Sewell.

The indictment follows a nearly three-year investigation that brought charges against suspected gang members, including five charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of 14-year-old Aamir Griffin in 2019 after an alleged gang member mistakes the innocent boy. for a rival, as well as the murder of Sean Vance on New Years Eve 2020.

The defendants, aged 17 to 40, were charged with 151 counts of first, second and fourth degree conspiracy, second degree murder and additional charges. They are due back in court in May.

At the center of the charges is the violent rivalry between Money World street gangs in southeast Queens and their rivals the Local Trap Stars and Never Forget Loyalty. Although the gang war began in April 2019, tensions and violence between the gangs increased after Griffin’s murder in October 2019, according to the district attorney’s office.

They are the 33 suspected gang members involved in a bloody feud that has terrorized Baisley Park Houses and nearby communities in South Jamaica, Queens.

Since Griffin’s murder, there have been more than 22 shootings, including one fatal. The violence was fueled by social media and rap videos.

The pullout not only ended with over 30 people charged, but also ended with over 30 illegal firearms removed from the streets.

Those who live near Baisley Park Houses remember the grief and shock they felt after Griffin’s death. But despite this historic dismantling of gangs, concerns remain about the safety of this community.

Of the 33 suspected gang members charged, four have yet to be arrested. Police are actively looking for them and working on other gang busts.