A Queens man has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for a series of burglaries that terrorized neighborhood residents. After a three-month spree of break-ins across Queens County, Juan Morales of Jackson Heights received a sentence of up to 30 years following a jury trial, as announced by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. Morales, 45, was convicted of a series of charges, including 12 counts of burglary in the second degree and attempted burglary. The Queens District Attorney's Office detailed Morales' methodical approach, involving gloves and black attire, as he disabled security systems to access his targets.
"Your home should be the safest place for you and your family," District Attorney Katz said in the press release. "This defendant shattered that peace of mind for these victims." The spree, which began on November 5, 2022, included theft of tens of thousands of dollars in cash, jewelry, designer handbags, and other personal items. A verdict on Morales' criminal activities was reached on March 18 after approximately five hours of jury deliberation, leading to his recent sentencing. However, Morales was acquitted of one count of burglary in the second degree. Supreme Court Justice Frances Wang sentenced Morales to a determinate term of 27 years, to be followed by an one to three years on other charges, plus five years of post-release supervision.
According to the press release, Morales' criminal haul was substantial, featuring items such as Rolex and Cartier watches, a Hermes Birkin handbag, and other valuables. The arrest that ended the string of break-ins occurred on February 15, 2023, with Morales found fleeing the scene with a backpack full of burglar's tools. Evidence from video surveillance and items discovered at his storage unit, including more than $400,000 in cash, tied Morales to the burglary pattern.
Assistant District Attorneys Erin Mullins and John Roque prosecuted the case, under the supervision of higher-ranking officials within the District Attorney's Career Criminal Major Crimes Bureau.
