On the local level, Katz brought these same concerns to a recent meeting of the 107th Precinct Community Council. Addressing residents directly, she highlighted the “Operation Weed Whacker” initiative, which has led to the padlocking of more than 340 illegal cannabis shops across the borough since 2024. Katz warned families that these unregulated shops often target minors with products packaged to look like popular candies.
Beyond criminal prosecution, the DA’s office has turned its attention to neighborhood safety issues, including the rise of unlicensed e-scooters. Katz explained that her office is coordinating with law enforcement to remove illegal scooters parked on city streets to provide recourse for accident victims who are often left with no insurance or registration to trace.
Katz also issued a sharp warning regarding elder scams, noting that her office frequently investigates cases of financial exploitation where recovery is nearly impossible once the money is gone.
The District Attorney concluded her budget testimony by arguing that public safety funding must reflect the reality of the work being done on the ground. As the City Council begins budget negotiations, the focus remains on whether Queens will finally receive a funding allocation that matches its city-leading caseload.
