32 Arrests Made in Major Queens Gang Takedown Linked to 3 Murders
In a significant law enforcement operation, authorities have executed the largest gang takedown in Queens history, resulting in the arrest and indictment of 32 alleged members of the Bad-Co Ballout gang. This operation revealed a cache of firearms and brought to light the gang’s involvement in a violent turf war spanning four years that has generated widespread fear among local communities.
The indictments include serious charges such as murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy. Over the course of their reign, which was marked by brazen acts of violence in public spaces—including parks and residential neighborhoods—the gang was linked to at least 13 shootings since 2021, three of which resulted in fatalities. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the impact of the gang’s activities on the region, stating that the violence had tragic consequences, including the loss of three lives.
The gang operated out of Queens Village, a locale they referred to as “Shadyville,” named in homage to their alleged leader, 21-year-old Jahvon Attapoku, who goes by the nickname “Shady.” Authorities allege that Attapoku played a central role in orchestrating gang operations, including the storage and distribution of loaded firearms, while actively directing conflict against rival groups.
Among the violent incidents tied to the gang is the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Mark Greene on November 2, 2022. According to the charges, Attapoku, alongside an associate known as Jeff “Havoc” Joseph, targeted Greene during a robbery outside a high school, culminating in Greene’s death at the hands of Joseph.
In her remarks, Katz highlighted the need for continued efforts to dismantle gang operations in the borough, asserting that the justice system would not waver in its commitment to enhancing community safety and mitigating gang-related violence.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch echoed these sentiments, underscoring how rival gangs have pervaded local neighborhoods with fear and violence, often boasting about their criminal acts on social media. This concerted operation marks a pivotal moment in the city’s ongoing battle against gang violence, aiming to restore a sense of security and stability in impacted communities.
As law enforcement agencies continue to confront the intricate network of gang activity, the repercussions of this substantial takedown further reflect the collective commitment to dismantling organized crime and fostering a safer environment for residents across Queens. Media News Source.
