QUEENS, NY — A Bronx man has been arraigned on charges stemming from the violent home invasion and murder of a couple in Bellerose. Jamel McGriff, 42, faces serious allegations including 13 counts of first-degree murder, among other offenses.
On Monday morning, September 8, McGriff is accused of forcibly entering the home of Frank and Maureen Olton. He allegedly killed the couple and set their house on fire.
According to the District Attorney’s office, McGriff attempted to transfer money from the victims’ bank account before fleeing the scene. “He made multiple attempts to transfer money from their bank account, murdered them, and set the house ablaze,” District Attorney Melinda Katz stated.
McGriff is also charged with two counts of second-degree murder and numerous other crimes such as kidnapping and arson. He faces a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole if convicted.
Queens Supreme Court Justice Kenneth Holder presided over the arraignment and set McGriff’s return date for November 12. During the afternoon of September 8, he was seen leaving the Oltons’ residence carrying a duffel bag shortly before authorities were alerted to a fire at the location.
Firefighters discovered both victims deceased inside the home. They found Frank Olton, 76, in the basement and Maureen Olton, 77, in the living room.
After the alleged crime, McGriff reportedly used Frank Olton’s credit card for purchases totaling $796.10 at Macy’s later that day. He also disposed of the Oltons’ cell phones at a Bronx check cashing store the following morning.
The New York Police Department apprehended McGriff on Tuesday, September 10, in midtown Manhattan. Senior Assistant District Attorney John Esposito is handling the prosecution of the case.
