Midtown Tribune

Category: NEW YORK NEWS

Governor Hochul Warns of Scams Targeting New York Inflation Refund Checks
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is alerting residents to scams falsely claiming you must share bank or payment details to receive the state’s inflation refund check. The New York State Tax Department and IRS will never call, text, email, direct message, or mail asking for personal tax information. Eligible New Yorkers—those who filed a return, meet income thresholds, and weren’t claimed as dependents—will automatically receive checks, with more than 8.2 million households getting payments through October and November. If you get a suspicious message, block the sender, delete it, and report it to the Tax Department or IRS. Avoid clicking links, sharing personal data, or meeting anyone for “payment.” For eligibility details and consumer protection resources, visit the New York State Tax Department and Division of Consumer Protection websites. Stay vigilant to avoid tax scams and protect your identity.

Governor Hochul Warns Against Scams Targeting New York’s Inflation Refund Initiative

Scammers are Sending Text Messages, Emails and Direct Mail Falsely Claiming That New Yorkers Must Submit Payment Information To Receive an Inflation Refund Check

Eligible New Yorkers Will Receive Their Inflation Refund Check With No Need To Apply, Sign Up or Provide Personal Information

Governor Kathy Hochul today warned New Yorkers of scammers who are sending text messages, voice messages, emails and direct mail to taxpayers in an attempt to spread false information about New York State’s inflation refund checks. These messages falsely claim that New Yorkers must submit accurate payment information in order to receive an inflation refund check, supposedly so revenue agencies can deposit money into a taxpayer’s bank account. The New York State Tax Department and the IRS will not call or text New Yorkers with requests for any personal information. View an example of this text message, so you know what to look out for.

“New Yorkers do not have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check outside of meeting the eligibility requirements,” Governor Hochul said. “With scams targeting the state’s inflation refund initiative, let me be clear: The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information. My administration urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report these scams to the Tax Department to protect yourself from being a victim.”

Eligible New Yorkers do not need to apply, sign up, or do anything to receive an inflation refund check. If you filed a tax return, are below the income thresholds, and no one else claimed you as a dependent, you will receive a check. Governor Hochul recently announced that the State has begun sending inflation refund checks to more than 8.2 million households across New York State, with check deliveries to continue throughout October and November. For more information on eligibility and other details, visit the New York State Tax Department’s webpage at ny.gov/inflationrefund.

If you receive one of these messages appearing to be from the Tax Department, block the sender, delete the message, and report this scam to the Tax Department or IRS. The Tax Department does not use text messages, email, direct mail or social media to request your personal tax information.

By staying alert and knowing what to watch out for, you can reduce your risk of becoming a target of common tax scams.

How you can protect yourself

Follow these best practices to help keep your personal information safe and prevent yourself from becoming a victim. In addition:
- If you receive a threatening phone call regarding your taxes, hang up immediately.
- Never agree to meet anyone who claims to be a tax representative in person to hand over payment for a debt.
- Don’t provide personal information in an email or click suspicious links in an email asking for personal information.
Report scams

If you’ve been scammed or think you’ve received an email, phone call, or text that seems suspicious, report it. We review all complaints promptly and, if appropriate, take corrective action.

For more taxpayer scam information, visit the Division of Consumer Protection’s Taxpayer Scam webpage. For additional identity theft prevention and mitigation resources, call the Consumer Helpline at 800-697-1220 or visit the Division’s Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program webpage.

September 28, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Midtown Tribune news
Big New York news BigNY.com

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York
September 29, 2025
New York to Let Banks Claim CRA Credit for CDFI Investments Despite Lapsed Federal Status

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said state-chartered banks can count loans and investments in Community Development Financial Institutions toward Community Reinvestment Act obligations even if a CDFI’s 2024 federal certification has temporarily lapsed, a move aimed at keeping capital flowing to underserved borrowers. The Department of Financial Services guidance follows a meeting with CDFIs, minority depository institutions and large lenders, and is intended to minimize disruption from federal uncertainty. The state points to a broader push on access to credit, citing nearly $18 million in CDFI grants over five years and State Small Business Credit Initiative programs that have deployed $35.5 million through the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund 2.0 and $18.2 million via a Contractor Financing Program. With more than 80 certified CDFIs and 46 MDIs operating in New York, officials say the step will help sustain affordable housing finance, small-business lending and other community development activity.

New York. Governor Hochul Affirms Commitment to Advancing Affordability and Access to Financial Services in Underserved Communities

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new guidance from the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) allowing state-chartered banks to receive Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit for lending to or investing in Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) — even if their 2024 federal certification has lapsed. This action will help safeguard critical investments in CDFIs which can be used to expand access to affordable housing, small business financing, and other vital services within minority communities.

“Every New Yorker — no matter where they live — deserves access to affordable and reliable financial services and the resources they need to build a brighter future,” Governor Hochul said. “While Republicans in Washington work to undermine Community Development Financial Institutions and strip away critical investments in working families, New York is charting its own path. The Department of Financial Services’ new guidance strengthens our support for CDFIs, empowering them to fuel small business growth, open doors to homeownership, and expand opportunity in neighborhoods that have too often been overlooked. By building on our strong record of investments and providing certainty in uncertain times, we are advancing affordability and prosperity for every New Yorker.”

New York State Department of Financial Services Superintendent Adrienne A. Harris said, “CDFIs are on the frontline of helping underrepresented New Yorkers access capital and credit, driving economic growth, boosting employment, and building wealth. The Department is proud to continue to support CDFIs as part of its mission to build a more equitable financial system for all New Yorkers.”

Today’s action follows a recent convening of CDFIs, Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), and senior representatives from New York’s largest banks to discuss measures to strengthen these institutions and ensure continued access to capital for underserved communities. This guidance makes clear that CDFIs that experience federal CDFI Fund certification lapses unrelated to their programs or mission have an avenue for continued funding, helping to ensure that federal uncertainty does not destabilize community-based institutions. By providing certainty for banks and CDFIs, New York is ensuring that mission-driven lenders can continue to attract and deliver critical services in neighborhoods often overlooked by traditional financial institutions.

In addition to today’s DFS action, Empire State Development has built a strong track record of supporting CDFIs across New York, awarding nearly $18 million in grants to CDFIs over the last five years. ESD also leveraged $500 million in federal funding allocated through the State Small Business Credit Initiative to establish ten new capital access and equity programs for small businesses, including several that distribute capital in partnership with CDFIs. Already, ESD has allocated $35.5 million to 16 CDFIs through the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund 2.0 and another $18.2 million to 7 CDFI partners through the Contractor Financing Program. Collectively, these efforts have helped thousands of New Yorkers — particularly unbanked and underbanked individuals and small businesses and microbusinesses — open bank accounts, receive technical assistance, and access affordable credit to build wealth and stability in their communities.

New York is home to more than 80 certified CDFIs and 46 MDIs, which collectively provide billions of dollars in mortgages, small business loans, and community development projects that drive economic growth and financial inclusion.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Community Development Financial Institutions are vital partners in ensuring that every New Yorker, no matter their zip code, has access to affordable credit and financial services. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, Empire State Development has invested tens of millions of dollars to strengthen CDFIs and empower them to deliver capital, training, and opportunity in communities too often overlooked by traditional banking. Today’s action reinforces that commitment and ensures these mission-driven lenders can continue to help small businesses grow, families build wealth, and neighborhoods thrive.”

Senator Charles Schumer said, “From Buffalo to Albany, the CDFI Fund is used to build new homes, reduce housing costs, improve healthcare, start new businesses, and rebuild Main Streets across New York. This new guidance will help expand access to financial services for all New Yorkers, from new families trying to buy their first home to entrepreneurs starting and expanding small businesses. With programs like this under attack by Trump’s budget cuts, it is more important than ever to protect existing investments and keep support flowing to New York’s Main Streets and the middle class. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in ensuring financial services are available to all New Yorkers.”

State Senator James Sanders Jr. said, “I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul for her initiative in supporting Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). We need to ensure New York CDFIs are healthy and effective since they play a critical role in improving access to underserved communities.”

Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “CDFIs are critical gateways for underserved communities to grow, bridging the gap between economic barriers and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach under traditional banks. For the 80 and rising CDFIs across New York State, every investment into a CDFI translates into an investment for stimulating small businesses, promoting homeownership, and encouraging all communities to thrive in the economic mainstream.”

Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, “I commend Governor Hochul and the Department of Financial Services for their work to ensure that vital investments continue to flow into our communities. Community Development Financial Institutions are essential for small businesses, first-time homebuyers, and families who lack access to traditional banking services. This guidance will provide local economies the stability and certainty they need to grow and it will expand opportunity for all New Yorkers.”

Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, “This action by DFS ensures that our mission-driven lenders can continue serving the families and small businesses that traditional banks too often overlook. In the Mohawk Valley, CDFIs are vital partners for first-time homebuyers, small contractors, and local entrepreneurs. Without this measure, our CDFIs would lose access to critical funding not due to any fault of their own, but to federal uncertainty. I appreciate the efforts of the agency as well as the Governor to provide stability and fairness, and to ensure the continuance of these important institutions.”

This announcement builds on Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to affordability and equity, ensuring that New York continues to lead the way in supporting mission-driven financial institutions and the communities throughout New York who rely on them.

September 26, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 28, 2025
New York to Fund 19 Climate-Resilience Projects With $30 Million From Bond Act
ALBANY, N.Y. — Gov. Kathy Hochul said New York will award $30 million to 19 projects aimed at curbing flooding and strengthening coastal defenses, tapping the 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act during Climate Week. The grants back Department of State programs focused on coastal rehabilitation and inland flooding, funding streambank stabilization on the Wallkill and Genesee rivers, wetland and salt marsh restorations on Long Island, stormwater upgrades in Freeport and Waterloo, and dam removals and culvert replacements from Cazenovia to Boonville. Officials say the work is intended to protect infrastructure, improve water quality and help communities adapt to extreme weather and sea-level rise. The Bond Act totals $4.2 billion for climate, conservation and water projects statewide, with agencies prioritizing resilience and benefits for disadvantaged communities.

Governor Hochul Announces $30 Million Bond Act Funding Awards for 19 Projects Statewide as Part of Climate Week

Grants Awarded to Projects that Will Enhance Climate Resilience Across New York State. Programs Reduce Inland Flooding and Make Coastal Areas More Resilient to Extreme Weather and Flooding

In recognition of Climate Week NYC, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $30 million in funding awards from the 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act (Bond Act) for 19 projects designed to enhance community resilience to extreme weather events and flooding across New York State. The projects represent the Governor’s proactive approach to addressing the effects of extreme weather driven by climate change.

“New York is continuing to make historic investments to protect our communities from the growing risks of inland and coastal flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects will strengthen local infrastructure, restore natural protections and make neighborhoods more resilient in the face of climate change. By advancing these projects now, we are not only safeguarding lives and property, but also demonstrating New York’s leadership in building a safer, stronger and more sustainable future.”

The Bond Act of 2022 supports projects and initiatives in four categories: restoration and flood risk reduction; open space land conservation and recreation; climate change mitigation; and water quality improvement and resilient infrastructure. The funds are being used by New York State Agencies and Authorities to implement projects that protect water quality, reduce pollution, protect natural resources, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency and create green jobs.

The New York Department of State (DOS) administers two programs through the Bond Act — the Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency Projects Program and the Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. The Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency Projects Program supports the implementation of projects that increase resilience with an emphasis on natural processes that provide environmental, economic, and social benefits. The Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program supports implementation projects that improve waterfront and watershed resiliency and reduce climate impacts, particularly flooding.

Project awards for the Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency Projects Program include:
- Wallkill River Streambank Stabilization at Celery Avenue, Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District: $450,000
- Genesee River Flood Resiliency, City of Rochester: $2,250,000
- Nyack Waterfront Restoration and Resiliency Improvements, Village of Nyack:$590,580
- Big Rock Wetland Restoration Project, Save the Sound, Inc.: $2,047,057
- Duck Pond Dam Removal and Kleine Kill Restoration, Mohonk Preserve, Inc.:$1,100,000
- West Canada Creek Floodplain Restoration and Strategic Relocation Project, Town of Herkimer: $1,278,256
- Mariners Harbor Pump Station Replacement and Relocation, City of Kingston: $665,865
- Summit Street Culvert Replacement, Village of Boonville: $344,250
- Eastern Storm Sewer System Improvement Project, Village of Waterloo: $1,930,779
- Saltmarsh Restoration at Sheepen Peninsula, Town of Brookhaven: $1,615,009
- Stormwater System Upgrades, Village of Freeport: $3,555,000
- Salt Marsh Restoration at Cupsogue Beach, Suffolk County: $4,173,204
Project awards for the Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects Program include:
- Turtle Cove Tidal Wetland Resiliency and Restoration, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation: $3,190,979
- Mill Street Dam Removal and Chittenango Creek Restoration, Village of Cazenovia: $1,359,900
- Sucker Brook Flood Resiliency Implementation, City of Canandaigua: $2,650,600
- MacDonough Park Flood Resiliency Improvements, City of Plattsburgh: $1,181,812
- Mill Creek Streambank Stabilization, Lewis County: $304,126
- Schroon River Access Site Resiliency Improvements, Warren County: $535,401
- Kingston Point Beach Sea-Level Rise Mitigation Project, City of Kingston: $982,733
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Communities across the state are already experiencing the impacts of severe weather and sea level rise. The projects we are funding through these programs will deliver the resources local governments need to strengthen critical infrastructure, protect shorelines and restore natural systems that help keep people safe.”

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Whether it’s preventing inland flooding or rehabilitating coastal areas, Governor Hochul is ensuring that we are doing our part to make all New Yorkers safer from the effects of severe weather events. This $30 million investment from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act builds on the significant resources committed across the state which will save exponentially more in recovery from future storms, while getting put to work, and helping communities get the resources they need to plan and prepare.”

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Governor Hochul’s climate leadership is delivering strategic and proactive solutions for helping our communities keep their residents and businesses safe from the most damaging effects of extreme weather events. The infrastructure investments announced today will benefit generations of New Yorkers by strengthening resiliency systems, allowing these regions to adapt to and recover more readily and cost-effectively from the impacts of future flooding.”

State Senator Pete Harckham said, “Climate change is already costing our communities more than $2 billion a year, and those costs will only grow if we fail to strengthen the resilience of our infrastructure. This is exactly the kind of investment the Bond Act was created for: protecting our residents and creating good-paying jobs locally. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the Legislature for prioritizing this critical issue and for ending Climate Week with a statement of action.”

Assemblymember Deborah Glick said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her foresight and commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe while advancing our climate goals. Climate change demands that we act decisively and proactively, and by directing Bond Act dollars toward resilience projects, the Governor is working hard to protect lives and livelihoods. It is vital that we prepare our state for the challenges of hotter and more extreme weather patterns.”

New York State’s Climate Agenda

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

About New York’s Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act

On November 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act. State agencies, local governments, and partners will be able to access funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs. Bond Act funding will support new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change. Since the Bond Act passed, an interagency working group comprised of multiple state agencies has been implementing a transparent and collaborative process to identify needs for environmental funding across the State to help develop program logistics. Learn more about the Environmental Bond Act here.

September 26, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York
September 27, 2025
Mayor Eric Adams Backs Israel After Meeting With Prime Minister Netanyahu at UN General Assembly

On September 26, 2025, in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement following his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the prime minister’s United Nations General Assembly address. Emphasizing NYC’s tradition of free speech and welcoming all viewpoints, Adams thanked Netanyahu for “defending the western world and our way of life” and warned that calls for the death of Jews are also attacks on Americans. Framing his remarks around his oath to protect New Yorkers, Adams reaffirmed steadfast support for the State of Israel, its right to defend itself, eliminate Hamas, and secure the release of all hostages. The mayor underscored that, even as some turn away from Israel, the leader of the largest Jewish community outside Israel must stand firm in solidarity.

Mayor Adams’ Statement After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Address at the United Nations General Assembly

– New York City Mayor Eric Adams today issued the following statement after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the prime minister’s address at the United Nations General Assembly this morning:

“For decades, world leaders have convened in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly to pursue diplomacy and peace. While we may not always agree with these leaders, New York City has always been a place where all are welcome, regardless of their beliefs. Allowing everyone to speak freely is who we are as a city and as a nation — and while many may try to reject that notion today, I will continue to embrace it.

“That is why, of all the world leaders we have greeted this week, I was particularly proud to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after his address to the United Nations, to thank him for defending the western world and our way of life.

“As your mayor, my oath is to protect New Yorkers against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, and Prime Minister Netanyahu laid out a clear case that those who call for the death of Jews across the globe are also calling for the death of Americans.

“At a time when much of the world is turning its back on the Jewish State of Israel, the mayor of the largest Jewish community outside of Israel must remain steadfast in our support for Israel, its right to defend itself, eliminate Hamas, and bring every single one of their hostages home.”

September 26, 2025

NEW YORK

Sources: NYC.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 26, 2025
Adams Extends Emergency Order for NYC Jails Amid Staffing Crisis

Summary: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sept. 25, 2025, extended the jail system’s state of emergency for another five days, citing persistent staffing shortfalls and pressure to comply with federal oversight mandates. The order, tied to the Nunez Action Plan, aims to stabilize operations at Rikers Island and other facilities where staff attrition has strained safety, sanitation, and access to basic services. The move continues a series of emergency measures first imposed in 2021 as the city works to address chronic dysfunction inside its correctional system.

Emergency Executive Order 863

WHEREAS, on September 2, 2021, the federal monitor in the Nunez use-of-force class action stated that steps must be taken immediately to address the conditions in the New York City jails; and

WHEREAS, on June 14, 2022, the federal court in Nunez approved the Nunez Action Plan, which “represents a way to move forward with concrete measures now to address the ongoing crisis at Rikers Island”; and

WHEREAS, although there has been improvement in excessive staff absenteeism, extraordinarily high rates of attrition due to staff retirements and other departures continue to seriously affect the Department of Correction’s (DOC’s) staffing levels and create a serious risk to DOC’s ability to carry out the safety and security measures required for the maintenance of sanitary conditions; and access to basic services, including showers, meals, visitation, religious services, commissary, and recreation; and

WHEREAS, this Order is given to prioritize compliance with the Nunez Action Plan and to address the effects of DOC’s staffing levels, the conditions at DOC facilities, and health operations; and

WHEREAS, additional reasons for requiring the measures continued in this Order are set forth in Emergency Executive Order No. 140 of 2022, Emergency Executive Order No. 579 of 2024, and Emergency Executive Order 623 of 2024; and

WHEREAS, the state of emergency existing within DOC facilities, first declared in Emergency Executive Order No. 241, dated September 15, 2021, and extended by subsequent orders, remains in effect;

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers vested in me by the laws of the State of New York and the City of New York, including but not limited to the New York Executive Law, the New York City Charter and the Administrative Code of the City of New York, and the common law authority to protect the public in the event of an emergency:

Section 1. I hereby direct that section 2 of Emergency Executive Order No. 861, dated September 20, 2025, is extended for five (5) days.

§ 2. This Emergency Executive Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in effect for five (5) days unless it is terminated or modified at an earlier date.

_______________________

Eric Adams
Mayor

September 25, 2025

Download Emergency Executive Order 863

Sources: NYC.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
Midtown Tribune News

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 25, 2025
NYC Extends Migrant Emergency Order Five Days as Shelter Strain Persists

New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sept. 25, 2025, signed Emergency Executive Order 864, extending Section 2 of EEO 862 for five days to manage an ongoing surge of asylum seekers and the resulting pressure on the Department of Homeless Services shelter system. The move continues the city’s state of emergency first declared in EEO 224 on Oct. 7, 2022, and cites authority under New York State law, the City Charter and the Administrative Code. The order takes effect immediately and can be modified or ended earlier, preserving operational flexibility as arrivals from the Southern border strain housing and services. Keywords: New York City, Eric Adams, Emergency Executive Order 864, EEO 862, EEO 224, asylum seekers, migrant crisis, DHS shelter system, September 25, 2025.

Emergency Executive Order 864

WHEREAS, over the past several months, thousands of asylum seekers have been arriving in New York City, from the Southern border, without having any immediate plans for shelter; and

WHEREAS, the City now faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that requires it to take extraordinary measures to meet the immediate needs of the asylum seekers while continuing to serve the tens of thousands of people who are currently using the DHS Shelter System; and

WHEREAS, additional reasons for requiring the measures continued in this Order are set forth in Emergency Executive Order No. 224, dated October 7, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the state of emergency based on the arrival of thousands of individuals and families seeking asylum, first declared in Emergency Executive Order No. 224, dated October 7, 2022, and extended by subsequent orders, remains in effect;

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers vested in me by the laws of the State of New York and the City of New York, including but not limited to the New York Executive Law, the New York City Charter and the Administrative Code of the City of New York, and the common law authority to protect the public in the event of an emergency:

Section 1. I hereby order that section 2 of Emergency Executive Order No. 862, dated September 20, 2025, is extended for five (5) days.

§ 2. This Emergency Executive Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in effect for five (5) days unless it is terminated or modified at an earlier date.

_______________________

Eric Adams
Mayor

September 25, 2025

Download Emergency Executive Order 864

Sources: NYC.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
Midtown Tribune News

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 25, 2025
Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Death of Gary Worthy

– New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the death of Gary Worthy, who died on November 19, 2024 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens.
After a thorough investigation, which included review of footage from body-worn cameras and security cameras, interviews with involved officers and witnesses, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s actions were justified under New York law.

Shortly before 6:30 p.m. on November 19, NYPD officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a robbery with a gun at a smoke shop on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard in Queens.
When officers arrived near the scene at 160th Street and Jamaica Avenue, one of the 911 callers approached the officers’ police car, pointed toward Mr. Worthy, and identified him as the alleged robber.
One officer got out of the car in an attempt to pursue Mr. Worthy on foot, and Mr. Worthy started to run down the sidewalk along Jamaica Avenue. As they ran, Mr. Worthy turned and fired a gun, striking the chasing officer in the leg. The bullet went through the officer’s leg and struck a bystander in the leg.
The chasing officer discharged his firearm in response, striking Mr. Worthy. Mr. Worthy was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The officer and the bystander were treated for their injuries. Officers recovered a gun at the scene.

Under New York’s justification law, a police officer may use deadly physical force when the officer reasonably believes it to be necessary to defend against the use of deadly physical force by another. In this case, as officers attempted to apprehend Mr. Worthy, he fired a gun, striking one officer and a bystander. Under these circumstances, given the law and the evidence, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s use of deadly physical force against Mr. Worthy was justified, and therefore OSI determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter.

In this case, officers did not render aid to Mr. Worthy during the five minutes he lay on the ground waiting for the ambulance to arrive. While OSI acknowledges that medical attention outside of a hospital setting would not have saved Mr. Worthy’s life, OSI recommends that NYPD – and all police agencies – emphasize in training that officers must aid any person injured by police use of force, even if the person who needs aid has injured a police officer. Currently, NYPD’s training and policies require that when an officer uses force, officers must “obtain medical attention for any person injured as soon as reasonably possible,” and officers must “render reasonable aid to injured person(s) and/or request an ambulance or doctor to the location as necessary.”

Letitia James

New York State Attorney General

September 25, 2025

NEW YORK

Sources: AG.ny.gov , Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 25, 2025
FBI: Man Arrested and Charged with Attempting to Provide Al-Qaida with Weapons

A criminal complaint was unsealed today after a Tulsa, Oklahoma, man appeared before a federal judge for attempting to provide 3-D printed weapons to an individual he believed was receiving them on behalf of al-Qaida.

Andrew Scott Hastings, 25, is charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations and illegal possession or transfer of a machinegun.

In June 2024, the FBI learned that Hastings was on a social media app discussing committing acts of violence against U.S. civilians in furtherance of global jihad. Court records indicate that Hastings was enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard (Guard) and worked as an aircraft powertrain repairer, and held a national security clearance. While employed with the Guard, Hastings traveled outside of the United States and failed to report his travel, as required.

Allegedly, Hastings told others within the social media group that they needed to develop cyberspace skills and to start physical training. During months of discussions, Hastings offered to provide anyone interested more than 500 pages of notes, as well as Army manuals related to tactics and the manufacture of weapons. Hastings claimed that he had previously been detained and interrogated by law enforcement and explained how to avoid law enforcement. Hastings further alleged that he made a firearm, was interested in creating a nuclear weapon, and discussed the advantages of using tunnels to protect armed militants, consistent with news reports about Hamas’s use of tunnels in Gaza.

Hastings began communicating with an undercover agent who claimed to have contacts with al-Qaida. They discussed 3-D printed firearms, machinegun conversion devices known as “switches,” and drones. Hastings eventually provided the undercover agent with a link to a website where he was offering 3-D printed switches for sale. Court documents show that Hastings was seen on surveillance footage twice arriving at a postal facility to ship boxes that contained more than 100 3-D printed switches, two 3-D printed lower receivers for a handgun, one handgun slide, and various handgun parts to be supplied to al-Qaida for use in terrorist attacks.

During the pendency of this investigation, on June 6, 2025, Hastings agreed to voluntarily discharge from the Guard.

Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Clinton J. Johnson for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director Donald Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.

The FBI Oklahoma City – Tulsa Resident Agency Joint Terrorism Task Force,
the Army Counterintelligence Command, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tulsa Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan E. Michel, Matthew P. Cyran, and Christopher J. Nassar for the Northern District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case with support from Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Updated September 24, 2025

Sources: Justice.gov , Midtown Tribune News

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 25, 2025
Mayor Adams Announces Citywide 15 MPH Speed Limit for E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Effective October 24

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced the implementation of a citywide 15 mph speed limit for e-bikes, e-scooters, and pedal-assist commercial bicycles, effective October 24, 2025, following the publication of the final rule in the City Record. The measure aligns with international best practices and is aimed at enhancing public safety amid record cycling growth and rising use of micromobility devices. The initiative builds on the Adams administration’s broader transportation safety agenda, which includes over 87 miles of new protected bike lanes, upgraded infrastructure, and the recent launch of the Department of Sustainable Delivery—a regulatory body tasked with overseeing delivery app operations and promoting safer streets. The administration continues to urge the City Council to adopt comprehensive legislation to hold app-based delivery companies accountable for incentivizing unsafe riding behaviors.

Mayor Adams Announces Citywide Speed Limit for E-Bikes to Go Into Effect on October 24

– New York City Mayor Eric Adams today delivered on a commitment made earlier this summer by announcing a citywide 15 mile-per-hour (mph) speed limit for electric bikes on city streets, effective October 24, 2025, following today’s publication of the final rule in the City Record. Once implemented, the 15 mph speed limit for e-bikes, e-scooters, and pedal-assist commercial bicycles will match the same speed limit that currently applies to stand-up e-scooters. The new rule mirrors best practices for e-bike speeds in many other areas of the world, including the European Union, which has implemented speed restrictions for e-bikes of 25 kilometers-per-hour (approximately 15 mph) in bike lanes.

“This new 15 miles-per-hour speed limit for e-bikes is about keeping New Yorkers safe while continuing to keep our city moving,” said Mayor Adams. “As more New Yorkers turn to e-bikes and e-scooters to get around our city, New Yorkers have asked us to set clear, consistent rules to address this issue and protect everyone. Starting October 24, whether you’re riding, walking, or driving, we know that everyone will be safe and protected on our streets. We’re proud of the work we’ve done to expand biking across the five boroughs while setting clear rules of the road that will improve public safety and New Yorkers’ quality of life.”

“With record bike ridership and a historic expansion of our protected bike lane network, we’re making it safer and easier than ever for the record number of New Yorkers choosing cycling by building infrastructure and providing education to meet the moment,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We are using every tool and studying worldwide best practices, to ensure every New Yorker is traveling at safe speeds on our streets.”

Today’s announcement is the latest step Mayor Adams has taken to enhance public safety for all New Yorkers on city streets. Other safety measures have included implementing targeted traffic enforcement against reckless driving, and the creation of the Department of Sustainable Delivery within the DOT. The Adams administration has also built a record 87.5 miles of new protected bike lanes, upgraded more than with sturdier barriers, and has begun building wider bike lanes along the city’s busiest routes to meet record demand for bike infrastructure throughout New York City.

Department of Sustainable Delivery
Recently, Mayor Adams announced the Department of Sustainable Delivery. Fulfilling a promise from his 2024 State of the City Address, the Department of Sustainable Delivery will consist of a team of data analysts, policy analysts, and peace officers who will focus on methods to improve traffic and vehicle safety and work to hold delivery app companies accountable for public safety. Funded as part of Fiscal Year 2026 Adopted Budget, which builds on Mayor Adams’ “Best Budget Ever,” the Department of Sustainable Delivery will bring order to New York City streets as the number of app-based deliveries and delivery workers have soared with little accountability in place for app-based companies. The Adams administration continues to call on the New York City Council to take up the administration’s comprehensive legislation to crack down on the root cause of reckless e-bike riding by regulating the app companies that incentivize dangerous behavior.

The Adams administration continues to call on the New York City Council to take up the administration’s comprehensive legislation to crack down on the root cause of reckless e-bike riding by regulating the app companies that incentivize dangerous behavior.

September 24, 2025 Manhattan NEW YORK

Spources: NYC.gov , Big New York News
Midtown Tribune News

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 24, 2025
New York. Attorney General James Announces Conviction of Former Rockland County Real Estate Agent for Deed Theft

AG James Secures First Criminal Conviction Under Home Equity Theft Protection Act

– New York Attorney General Letitia James today secured the guilty plea of former Rockland County real estate agent Oscar Dais for forging the signature of a homeowner to steal her property without her knowledge. In August 2021, Dais forged the signature of Monique Hill on a deed to take ownership of a Rockland County home while the home was in foreclosure. Dais pleaded guilty today in Rockland County Court to forgery and violation of the Home Equity Theft Protection Act (HETPA). This is the first conviction of a crime under HETPA, which helps protect New Yorkers from being taken advantage of when selling their home in foreclosure. Attorney General James worked to expand HETPA in 2023 as part of her ongoing efforts to prevent deed theft and protect New York homeowners.

“Oscar Dais took advantage of a homeowner who was dealing with a foreclosure and stole her property without her knowledge,” said Attorney General James. “No New Yorker should have to fear that the home they own will be stolen from them. I will continue to use every tool at my disposal to fight deed theft throughout our state and bring scammers like Oscar Dais to justice.”

In 2016, Hill’s mortgage lender began foreclosure proceedings after she and her husband defaulted on their mortgage. In August 2021, Dais created a copy of Hill’s deed with a signature line for “Monique Clark” – Hill’s former married name which she did not use. Dais then forged Hill’s signature on the deed and had it falsely notarized. Dais filed the forged deed with the Rockland County Clerk’s Office, transferring ownership of the property to a company he controlled. At the time that this deed was forged, notarized, and filed, Hill was in the Dominican Republic and had no knowledge of the forged deed.

In October 2021, Hill reported the fraudulent deed to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). She then filed a civil suit against Dais, which is still pending. As a result of his conviction, Dais will pay restitution to Hill and the fraudulent deed will be voided, restoring Hill’s ownership of her share of the property.

The HETPA is a New York state law that protects homeowners selling a home in foreclosure or default to a buyer who wants to purchase the home as an investment. The HETPA requires complete contracts that sellers have a right to cancel, and the law prevents buyers from deceiving or misleading sellers. In 2023, Attorney General James advanced legislation to expand HETPA to also protect homeowners with active utility liens on their homes.

This is the latest example of Attorney General James taking action to protect New Yorkers from deed theft. In August, Attorney General James charged two people for stealing the home of an elderly woman in Queens. In February, Attorney General James announced charges against a woman in Queens for stealing the home and funds of her elderly neighbor. In October 2024, Attorney General James and Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark announced the arrests of three real estate scammers for stealing over $250,000 from New Yorkers and for their roles in a deed theft scheme to steal the childhood home of a Bronx resident. In April 2023, Attorney General James announced two pieces of legislation to strengthen protections and remedies for victims of deed theft, both of which have been signed into law.

New Yorkers who believe they are a victim of deed theft are encouraged to contact OAG by calling 1(800) 771-7755, emailing deedtheft@ag.ny.gov, or filing a confidential complaint.

The OAG thanks the New York State Police for the criminal referral and its assistance with this investigation and prosecution. The OAG also thanks the City of Pooler, Georgia Police Department and the Harford County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.

The case was investigated by Detective Sal Ventola under the direction of Supervising Detective Walter Lynch, and all under the supervision of Deputy Chief Juanita Bright. The Investigations Bureau is led by Chief Oliver Pu-Folkes. The audit function was undertaken by Principal Auditor Investigator Dmitry Temis under the supervision of Deputy Chief Auditor Sandy Bizzarro. The audit team is led by Chief Auditor Kristen Fabbri.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Lauren Sass, with initial investigation and assistance by Assistant Attorney General Nazy Modiri, under the supervision of the Real Estate Enforcement Unit Section Chief Nicholas John Batsidis, Public Integrity Bureau Chief Gerard Murphy and Deputy Chief Kiran Heer, with assistance from Legal Support Analyst Meredith Youngblood. Both the Investigations Bureau and the Public Integrity Bureau are part of the Division for Criminal Justice. The Division for Criminal Justice is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General José Maldonado and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

Letitia James

New York State Attorney General

September 24, 2025

NEW YORK

Sources: ag.ny.gov , Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

September 24, 2025

Midtown Tribune

Midtown Tribune USA New York News

Business Promotiopn New York PromotionNY..com

New York Midtown Tribune