A man with a lengthy criminal history has been charged with 16 counts of murder in connection with the deaths of an elderly couple in Queens. The suspect, Jamel McGriff, 42, made erratic claims about the victims, calling them “child molesters” while being taken to the courthouse.
McGriff, who had been in police custody, faced reporters and vehemently denied the allegations, pushing back against accusations that he brutally harmed Frank and Maureen Alton.
As he was led away in handcuffs, he accused the media of misrepresenting the facts, claiming there’s no evidence against the couple regarding those claims.
Following the incident, around ten community members gathered near the scene to express their outrage. At one point, a woman shouted, “Someone should burn you to life!” directed at McGriff, whom many in the area hold in deep contempt.
Having spent over 16 years in prison before his release in 2023, McGriff’s record of offenses is extensive, and Thursday’s charges were linked to the brutal slaying of the elderly couple in their home.
This case has sparked a significant manhunt as NYPD officials circulated McGriff’s image widely to gather information.
Before his arrest, McGriff was reportedly at a cinema in Union Square, where he attended a screening of a film about Jesus from the perspective of the Apostle John, titled “The Light of the World.” The film was released on September 5.
McGriff’s upcoming court appearance is anticipated as he faces serious charges, including murder, robbery, and arson linked to the case. He’s now looking at a possible 16 counts of murder for the alleged killings while committing other offenses.
