The items were recovered as part of ongoing investigations into criminal trafficking networks, including ones linked to convicted art trafficker Subhash Kapoor and Nancy Wiener. Notably, two of the items were acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the same year, 1993, and had been seized by the office’s Antiquities Trafficking Unit (ATU).
“These groups have allegedly committed fatal and horrific gun violence in Inwood and Washington Heights over the past six years,” said District Attorney Bragg. “I want to be very clear: if you traffic illegal firearms into Manhattan, or use guns to commit violence against fellow Manhattanites, you will be held accountable. We will not accept this type of conduct, which tears at the fabric of our communities. I will continue to work in close coordination with all of our law enforcement partners to address the continued scourge of gun violence and ensure everyone in the borough can live in the safe neighborhood that they deserve.”
One of the city’s glitziest magazine publishers has been ensnared by a scamster who bounced checks for full page ads in Conde Nast Publications that he used to get consumers to turn over valuable jewelry including engagement rings, watches and necklaces.
“As alleged, Jerona Smith broke the trust that her clients instilled in her by stealing their hard-earned money,” said District Attorney Bragg. “My Office will continue to prosecute those who prey on the vulnerability of older New Yorkers in their care. If you or someone you know is above the age of 60 and may be a victim of a crime, I urge you to call our Elder Abuse Unit at 212-335-9007 or email EAU@dany.nyc.gov.”
