NYC Crime & Prostitution: AOC, Meng Respond
- Despite ongoing police intervention, prostitution and illegal vending continue along Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, an area represented by Reps.
- Ramses Frias, a local activist and Republican City council candidate, stated that criminal activity has returned to previous levels.
- A recent visit to Roosevelt Avenue revealed numerous women appearing to solicit sex for money, even with a police presence nearby.
News from the front lines: The fight against prostitution adn illegal activity on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens continues, despite a police crackdown. Local representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Grace Meng are facing scrutiny as residents express frustration over the persistent problems, with many describing the area as a “red light district.” While police report that Operation Restore Roosevelt has reduced crime, the situation remains complex, with gangs suspected to be operating and illegal vendors continuing their trade. The article reveals the ongoing challenges in addressing this issue, including the need for lasting solutions. News Directory 3 has the full story. Discover what’s next as the community seeks solutions.
Queens Red Light District: Prostitution Persists Despite Crackdown
Updated June 09, 2025
Despite ongoing police intervention, prostitution and illegal vending continue along Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, an area represented by Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Grace Meng. Residents describe the situation as a persistent problem, likening it to a “red light district” or a “third-world flea market.” some have even nicknamed the strip the “Avenue of the Sweethearts.”
Ramses Frias, a local activist and Republican City council candidate, stated that criminal activity has returned to previous levels. He added that residents feel trapped in thier homes while criminals operate freely. Gangs like the 18th Street gang and Tren de Aragua are suspected of operating in the area, as evidenced by graffiti.
A recent visit to Roosevelt Avenue revealed numerous women appearing to solicit sex for money, even with a police presence nearby. Illegal vendors were also observed selling counterfeit goods and grilling food under unsanitary conditions. similar activities were witnessed during a follow-up visit, including women offering eyebrow threading services on the sidewalk and vendors dumping wastewater into drains.
NYPD deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry reported that Operation Restore Roosevelt, an enhanced police crackdown, has reduced crime by 29% this year. He noted decreases in robberies, felony assaults, burglaries, and grand larceny. Daughtry emphasized the need for lasting change and mentioned that 15 brothels were raided following 30 court filings.
“There has been a notable difference. Robberies are down 23%, felony assaults are down 33%, burglaries are down 47%, and grand larceny is down 30%.”
Following Ocasio-Cortez’s town hall, authorities shut down a brothel operating above a corner store near two schools. Additionally, police raided two brothels on Meng’s side of Roosevelt Avenue. Frias noted that the community is aware and fed up with the illicit activity,but multiple brothels continue to operate.
Frias criticized Ocasio-Cortez for not using her social media platform to address the issue. Daughtry echoed this sentiment, stating that neither Ocasio-Cortez nor Meng collaborated with the police during the crackdown. He urged them to partner with the NYPD to secure funding and connect women to support services.
Mayor eric Adams initiated Operation Restore Roosevelt with the NYPD and City Council member Francisco Moya. Adams’ office affirmed the administration’s commitment to improving crime and quality-of-life issues. Meng described the situation as “concerning” and stated she is working with local law enforcement. Ocasio-Cortez’s office said she has engaged with local stakeholders and helped fix lights in the neighborhood.
What’s next
Efforts to combat prostitution, illegal vending, and gang activity on Roosevelt Avenue are ongoing. Continued collaboration between law enforcement, local representatives, and community members is crucial to achieving lasting improvements in the area.