Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Jose Lequerica has been formally charged in connection with the alleged assault that resulted in his wife's death. Details released by the D.A.'s Office reveal Lequerica's indictment on two counts of second-degree murder in the death of Asli Ak. Officials indicate Lequerica allegedly inflicted the fatal blows and did not seek immediate aid for his wife.
According to the indictment, on the night of November 15, 2024, Lequerica delivered multiple strikes to his wife's face, head, and body. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz described domestic violence as "a plague in our communities that must be rooted out at the core," according to the press release. She emphasized in a statement that victims often feel "isolated and alone, leading to heartbreaking results." Despite the defendant returning to the apartment and passing the night on the couch, authorities claim there was a delay of over seven hours before emergency services were contacted the following day. Ak, found unconscious, later died in the hospital from blunt force trauma to the head.
Justice Ira Margulis presided over the arraignment for Lequerica, 50, where he was remanded and given a return court date of August 12. The Queens Supreme Court hearing determined the future proceedings for Lequerica, who now potentially faces a life sentence. The crime occurred within the couple's Jackson Heights apartment on 34th Avenue. Following the grand jury indictment, NYPD officers arrested Lequerica in his home yesterday.
Assistant District Attorneys Nicole Rella and Alison Miller are leading the prosecution against Lequerica under the supervision of the Homicide Bureau. As the case proceeds, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz stated in the press release, “Please know that there are resources available to help you safely escape a dangerous domestic situation.”
