Astoria Community Says Enough Is Enough

The Queens Gazette reported on the efforts by Senator Gianaris and other elected officials to address the recent crimes in Western Queens. In addition to addressing questions and concerns from the community, Senator Gianaris has also introduced the expansion of the Good Samaritan laws that will protect our local businesses and non-profits from lawsuits so that they can be havens for victims who feel at risk in their surroundings.

Fed up with incidents of groping, car vandalism and even attempted rape, community leaders and activists met to discuss new crime fighting initiatives to create a safer environment in Astoria.

At the morning meeting on November 16 elected officials, including state Senator Michael Gianaris, Assemblymember Aravella Simotas, Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr., Ed Babor representing Congressmember Carolyn Maloney, District Leader Costa Constantinides, Astoria Civic Association President Paul Halvatzis and Tony Meloni of the New York Anti-Crime Agency fielded questions and concerns about a recent string of crimes. The meeting was held at the offices of Gianaris and Simotas at 21-77 31st St. in Astoria.

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“We must do everything in our power to combat the recent uncharacteristic crime wave in our community,” Gianaris said. “Protecting small businesses that rush to aid someone in distress will increase the safe havens available to crime victims and make our streets safer.”

Gianaris is introducing legislation that expands the Good Samaritan laws so it will pertain to local businesses and non-profits acting as safe havens to individuals who feel at risk or victimized. The measure would not hold organizations offering themselves as safe havens liable for damages or injuries that may have occurred while helping a victim.

Read the full article here.