In a recent development, a Queens man has pleaded guilty to a shooting incident that took place in Midtown Manhattan. Stefan Melville admitted to firing multiple rounds at two individuals outside a party at a hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The incident, which occurred last July, caused panic among innocent pedestrians who had to frantically seek cover. The guilty plea sends a strong message that the investigation and prosecution of gun violence in the city will be pursued relentlessly. Melville is scheduled to be sentenced on November 28, 2023, and could face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
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Queens Man Pleads Guilty To Midtown Manhattan Shooting
Background Information
Overview
In a significant development, a Queens man, Stefan Melville, has pleaded guilty to a shooting incident that took place in Midtown Manhattan. Melville fired multiple rounds at two individuals outside a hotel during July last year, causing panic among innocent pedestrians. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the incident, including the date and location, the arrest and plea, as well as the upcoming sentencing date.
Date and Location
The shooting incident occurred on July 3, 2022, near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. At that time, Melville fired multiple shots at individuals walking on the sidewalk, endangering the lives of innocent pedestrians in the area.
Arrest and Plea
Following the incident, Stefan Melville was arrested and subsequently pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Richard M. Berman. The guilty plea highlights Melville’s admission of his involvement in the shooting incident. The plea is a crucial step towards bringing justice to the victims and ensuring the safety of the community.
Sentencing Date
Stefan Melville is scheduled to be sentenced on November 28, 2023. The sentencing will be determined by Judge Richard M. Berman, taking into consideration the seriousness of the offense and other relevant factors.
Statement from U.S. Attorney Damian Williams
Summary of Incident
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams has provided a statement regarding the shooting incident. According to Williams, on that summer night, Stefan Melville used a handgun to fire multiple rounds at two individuals on the sidewalk near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. The shots caused panic among innocent pedestrians, who had to frantically run for cover, highlighting the grave impact of gun violence on public safety.
Importance of the Plea
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasizes the significance of Stefan Melville’s guilty plea. The plea demonstrates the commitment of the authorities to relentlessly investigate and prosecute incidents of gun violence. By pleading guilty, Melville has acknowledged his responsibility for the crime, which strengthens the case against him and supports the pursuit of justice for the victims.
Commitment to Prosecuting Gun Violence
The guilty plea in this shooting incident underscores the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecuting gun violence cases. The office, under the leadership of Damian Williams, remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community by holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Details of the Incident
Date and Location of the Shooting
The shooting incident occurred on July 3, 2022, near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This location is a busy area with high foot traffic, making the incident particularly alarming as innocent pedestrians were put at risk.
Number of Rounds Fired
Stefan Melville fired multiple rounds from his handgun during the incident. The exact number of rounds discharged is undisclosed, but the evidence suggests a reckless disregard for the safety of others in the vicinity.
Impact on Innocent Pedestrians
The shooting incident had a significant impact on innocent pedestrians who were present in the area. Upon hearing the gunshots, pedestrians were forced to run for cover, fearing for their lives. This incident highlights the profound consequences of gun violence and the urgent need to address this issue for the safety and well-being of the community.
Surveillance Footage
Images of Stefan Melville Firing His Handgun
Surveillance footage captured the moment when Stefan Melville fired his handgun at the individuals on the sidewalk near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue. The images provide crucial evidence that supports the prosecution’s case against Melville.
Recovery of Firearm Assembly and Shell Casings at the Scene
Upon arriving at the scene, officers of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) recovered the upper assembly of a firearm, three shell casings, and one unfired cartridge. These pieces of evidence were found on the sidewalk where Stefan Melville engaged in the shooting. The recovery of the firearm assembly and shell casings further strengthens the case against Melville.
Charges and Potential Sentence
Charge Against Stefan Melville
Stefan Melville pled guilty to one count of possession of ammunition after a felony conviction. Possessing ammunition with a prior felony conviction is a serious offense that carries severe consequences. Melville’s guilty plea acknowledges his violation of the law.
Maximum Sentence for Possession of Ammunition After a Felony Conviction
Possession of ammunition after a felony conviction carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The exact sentence that Melville will receive will be determined by Judge Richard M. Berman, taking into consideration the nature of the offense, Melville’s criminal history, and other relevant factors.
Recognition of Law Enforcement Agencies
Metro Safe Streets Task Force
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams acknowledges and commends the outstanding investigative work of the Metro Safe Streets Task Force. The task force, composed of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the NYPD, played a crucial role in the apprehension and prosecution of Stefan Melville.
Collaboration between FBI and NYPD
The successful collaboration between the FBI and the NYPD demonstrates the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in combating gun violence. The joint efforts and combined resources of these law enforcement agencies contribute to maintaining public safety and holding individuals accountable for their criminal actions.
Prosecution Details
Office’s General Crimes Unit
The prosecution of Stefan Melville is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. This unit specializes in investigating and prosecuting a wide range of criminal offenses, ensuring that justice is served and the community is protected.
Lead Prosecutor in Charge
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey W. Coyle is leading the prosecution against Stefan Melville. Coyle’s expertise and dedication to upholding the law ensure that the case is thoroughly pursued and the interests of justice are served.
Contact Information
Media Contact: Nicholas Biase
For media inquiries or additional information regarding the case, please contact Nicholas Biase, who serves as the media contact for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Biase can provide further details and assistance to journalists covering the story.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Phone Number
To reach the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and obtain information or assistance related to this case, please contact the office using the provided phone number. The office is committed to providing accurate and timely information to the public and the media.
U.S. Department of Justice Information
Address of the Southern District of New York Office
The Southern District of New York office is located at One St. Andrew’s Plaza, New York, NY 10007. This address serves as the official location for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and can be visited for inquiries or related matters.
Main Office and Criminal Division Phone Number
The main office and criminal division of the Southern District of New York U.S. Attorney’s Office can be reached using the provided phone number. This contact information ensures accessibility and facilitates communication with the relevant authorities regarding the case or any other inquiries.
Official Social Media Accounts
For the latest news, updates, and announcements from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Southern District of New York U.S. Attorney’s Office, follow their official social media accounts. These accounts provide a platform for timely information dissemination and engagement with the public.