Press Releases
D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment For Deed Theft Scheme: Charges Against 3 Individuals & 3 Companies For Stealing Harlem Brownstone From Family Of Deceased Owner 
“As alleged, six defendants worked together to take advantage of a grieving family, posing as heirs, and committing deed theft to steal their property. During a time when housing is scarce, I will not stand for fraudsters coming to Harlem to try and perpetrate these pernicious schemes. This type of alleged conduct preys on longtime New Yorkers, and we will prosecute those who take advantage of homeowners,” said District Attorney Bragg. “If you or someone you know suspects deed fraud, please contact our Housing and Tenant Protection Unit at 212-335-3300 or email Danyhousing@dany.nyc.gov.”
D.A. Bragg: Man Indicted For Placing Inoperable Chemical Weapon At NYPD Precinct
“We have no tolerance for anyone who threatens or puts members of law enforcement in harm’s way. The defendant’s actions against the NYPD are unacceptable and we will continue to pursue accountability in this matter. I want to thank the NYPD and our law enforcement partners in Georgia for an outstanding and collaborative investigation that has led to significant charges both states,” said District Attorney Bragg.
D.A. Bragg: Christopher Velarde Sentenced For Unprovoked Attacks At Midtown Deli And Subway Station
“Christopher Velarde committed vicious unprovoked attacks against two complete strangers in the span of minutes,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Both victims were significantly injured by this violence, requiring hospitalization and extensive surgeries, in addition to emotional trauma. Manhattanites deserve to be safe both above and below ground, and I hope the resolution of this case provides a sense of justice to the victims and their loved ones.”
D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment Of Donald Ziebenhood
“As alleged, Donald Ziebenhood escalated his threatening conduct towards his husband in multiple acts of intimate partner violence over the course of a year. My thoughts are with Mr. Zieben’s loved ones,” said District Attorney Bragg. “If you or someone you know is being abused by a current of former partner, we encourage you to call us at 212-335-9373 where trained professionals can provide resources and help.”
D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment In Rental Scam That Defrauded Multiple Victims Of Thousands Of Dollars
“Juan Valoy allegedly preyed on New Yorkers who were simply looking for a stable place to live at a time when affordable housing is scarce. The defendant allegedly exploited these circumstances so he could line his own pockets, all while leaving families with children without a home,” said District Attorney Bragg. “We believe there are additional victims of this scheme and encourage them to contact our Immigrant Affairs Unit at 212-335-3600. Interpreters are available to assist non-native English speakers and we encourage all to reach out regardless of immigration status.”
D.A. Bragg, D.O.I. Commissioner Strauber Announce Indictment Of Landlords For Tenant Harassment In Chelsea Apartment
“As alleged, Meyer Chetrit waged a campaign of harassment against two rent-regulated tenants in their 70s in hopes they would move out, and the building could be sold,” said District Attorney Bragg. “From winters without heat and unrepaired roofs causing leaks and ceiling collapses, these New Yorkers were forced to live in uninhabitable conditions. This is exactly the type of pattern of criminal harassment my Office’s Housing and Tenant Protection Unit was created to stop. All New Yorkers deserve to live in safe homes – please contact our Housing and Tenant Protection Unit at 212-335-3300 or Danyhousing@dany.nyc.gov for help.”
Manhattan District Attorney's Office