New York City, NY — Authorities in Queens say they’ve dismantled what prosecutors describe as the most violent gang operating in the borough — a group of 32 alleged members, many still in their teens, linked to a trail of deadly shootings, brazen daytime gunfire, and terror throughout Queens Village.
The individuals, ranging from 15 to 24 years old, were allegedly part of the crew known as the Bad-Co Ballout gang, which prosecutors say exerted control over their neighborhood through intimidation, retaliation, and social-media fueled bragging about violence.
At a Thursday press conference announcing the indictments, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz did not mince words.
“The violence associated with this group is truly staggering,” Katz said, noting that investigators tied the gang to at least three fatal shootings during a year-long probe. “These defendants have become the most violent gang in Queens County, creating fear and chaos throughout this borough.”
Alleged Leader Called the Shots in ‘Shadyville’
Prosecutors say the gang was led by Jahvon “Shady” Attapoku, 21, who allegedly issued orders on who should be targeted and supplied firearms to younger associates. Attapoku lived in Queens Village, which gang members themselves referred to as “Shadyville.”
According to the indictment, many of the gang’s crimes erupted in broad daylight, with shootings occurring near schools, intersections, homes, restaurants, and other busy public spaces — with no regard for innocent bystanders.
“Make no mistake,” Katz said. “This group didn’t care if they were shooting at busy intersections, playgrounds, or right next to residential buildings.”
One of the accused, Sean Chang, 20, even earned the nickname “Broad Day” due to his alleged willingness to open fire in broad daylight.
Other Alleged Members Identified
Additional defendants named in the takedown include:
- Mekhi “Scarfaxe” Hooi, 21
- Jeff “Havoc” Joseph, 21
- Michael “Smoccey” Raly, 21
- Shayne “Gotti Sleeze” Sheppard, 18
- Jujharbeer “Juggz” Singh, 18
- Anthony “Ant” Crawford, 19
Prosecutors say the gang frequently filmed or discussed violent acts online to gain status and intimidate rivals.
Innocent Bystanders Caught in the Crossfire
One of the most disturbing incidents tied to the gang occurred in September 2024. A then-15-year-old alleged member got into a confrontation with a rival near a busy intersection and opened fire.
Two stray bullets struck 66-year-old grandfather William Alcindor as he drove by. The gunfire caused him to crash into a 23-year-old woman sitting on the sidewalk.
“Mr. Alcindor died from a gunshot wound to his forehead and chest,” Katz said. The young woman survived but suffered head trauma, a collapsed lung, and long-term mobility issues.
“This is the definition of senseless violence — innocent people losing their lives or being severely injured,” Katz added.
Massive List of Charges — Some Facing Life Sentences
In total, the defendants face 97 charges, including:
- Murder
- Attempted murder
- Gun possession
- Conspiracy
- Additional violent felony charges
According to prosecutors, six defendants could face life in prison if convicted on the top counts.
NYPD: Social Media Helped Crack the Case
NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch said the gang routinely bragged online about the shootings they carried out, which became a crucial part of the investigation.
“For years, these rival gangs terrorized Queens communities, turning neighborhoods into their deadly playgrounds and boasting about it on social media,” Tisch said. “They wanted credit — and today, we’re happy to give it to them.”
She praised investigators’ “precision policing” for helping bring the alleged violent spree to an end.
“Thanks to their work,” Tisch added, “Queens is safer today.”
Do you think these historic indictments will reduce violence in Queens — or is there more work ahead? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.
