QUEENS, N.Y. — A staffer from the Queens District Attorney’s office has been accused of attempting to build a bomb with the alleged intent of attacking a migrant shelter in Elmhurst, according to police reports released this week. The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Derek Klever, worked as a trial preparation assistant in the office.
Authorities allege that Klever had been gathering materials to construct an explosive device, reportedly motivated by frustration over noise and partying at the Kamway Lodge, a small hostel in Elmhurst that the city has been using to temporarily house migrants arriving from the U.S.-Mexico border.
Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate Klever’s background and any potential additional motives behind the alleged plot. No information has been released regarding how far along Klever was in the planning or construction of the device.
The Queens District Attorney’s office released a statement condemning the alleged actions, stating that it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The office emphasized that Klever’s alleged conduct does not reflect the values of the office or its commitment to justice.
The incident has prompted heightened concerns about security at migrant shelters, which have faced growing scrutiny as New York City struggles to manage the influx of asylum seekers. Local officials are expected to review security protocols in response to the case.
Further details about the investigation are expected as it progresses.
