Alleged drug dealer squats in NYC home after tenant ODs

In a troubling incident in Queens, an alleged drug dealer named Pisano took over an apartment after the tenant, 52-year-old King, died from a heroin and fentanyl overdose on May 20. Following her death, Pisano and another woman moved into the unit, living there rent-free for over two months while reportedly conducting drug sales from the premises. Neighbors expressed their concerns about the safety of the building, noting that drug transactions were occurring openly in front of the building, which heightened their fears for their own safety. Despite the alarming situation, the NYPD initially hesitated to intervene, even with new state laws designed to facilitate police action against squatters. The landlord, Herb Donner, took legal steps to evict Pisano and his companion, issuing an eviction notice in June and seeking a court order to remove them. The situation escalated until a police raid on July 31 led to Pisano's arrest, where authorities discovered significant amounts of cocaine and heroin, along with drug paraphernalia in the apartment. Pisano was subsequently charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and pleaded guilty on August 20, receiving a nine-month sentence at Rikers Island. The apartment remains vacant and secured as the landlord awaits a court order to regain access to the property. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of drug-related activities and squatting in urban areas, raising questions about community safety and law enforcement's response. The case underscores the vulnerability of individuals struggling with addiction and the potential for exploitation by those looking to take advantage of their circumstances. As the community grapples with the aftermath, residents are left to ponder the implications of such incidents on their safety and the effectiveness of current laws in addressing these challenges.