The Queens County Criminal Bar Association (QCCBA) hosted its inaugural dinner and awards night on Thursday, Nov. 21, at Agra Palace in Forest Hills.
The event, which marked the association’s first full year of operation, drew approximately 200 members from the Queens County criminal legal community to celebrate distinguished achievements in the region.
The evening’s awards recognized notable leaders in the local criminal justice system. Honorees included The Honorable Michelle A. Johnson, Administrative Judge for Queens County Supreme Court – Criminal Term, who was named 2024 Judge of the Year.
The Founders’ Award was presented to The Honorable Michael J. Yavinsky, Acting Justice of the Supreme Court – Queens County.
George DeLuca-Farrugia, Assistant District Attorney in the Queens County District Attorney’s Office, was named 2024 A.D.A. of the Year, while Frank Kelly, Esq., received the 2024 Defense Attorney of the Year award.
Court Officer Joseph Martinez was selected for the 2024 People’s Choice Award after receiving 40% of the 338 votes cast in a popular vote open to all those working in criminal justice on Queens Boulevard.
Richard B. Sikes, Esq., President of QCCBA, expressed the association’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration in the criminal legal community. “When the Executive Board founded the QCCBA, the goal was to be a resource for the entire Queens criminal legal community with building their networks to foster greater collaboration,” he said. “We hope to hold many more awards dinners and QCCBA will continue to be dedicated to work that achieves justice and improves our communities. I am especially grateful to the honorees for their years of commitment to the people of Queens County and the law, as well as QCCBA’s sponsors and members for supporting a successful event.”
Queens County District Attorney Melinda Katz also addressed the crowd, expressing her gratitude to the honorees for their service to the community.
The QCCBA thanked its generous sponsors, including Weitz & Luxenberg (Platinum Sponsor) and Addabbo & Greenberg (Gold Sponsor), as well as various local supporters.
The QCCBA is dedicated to advancing the legal profession of attorneys who practice criminal law in Queens County by providing networking opportunities, educational events, and advocacy for local legal issues. For more information, visit their Instagram page @queens_county_crim_bar_assoc.
